19 Jun 2018

The construction of the Gaborone-Boatle interchange has begotten tough times for both taxi operators and passengers.

 Due to the interchange construction which started last week, the bus stop to places such as Ramotswa, Lobatse, Mmankgodi and Gaborone had to move to a new site, which happens to be a metre away but further into unoccupied land.

A press statement released recently by the Ministry of Transport and Communications stated that the junction closure paved the way for an interchange which was expected to be completed in April, when the entire projects would be completed.

 At the time of the closure, the project was reported to be at 31.02 per cent against the target of 33.52 per cent.

 The Boatle junction upgrade is part of the upgrading of the Gaborone-Boatle road from a single carriageway to dual carriageway.

In an interview, taxi operators on Monday decried lack of consultation and the failure by relevant authorities to view them as stakeholders.
 

One of the taxi operators, Mr Kenosi Kofi said none of the concerned authorities bothered to engage them about the new site.

 He said they were only ordered to relocate to the new site, saying it was dusty and a health hazard to customers.

 He added that they also risked being charged by the Department of Road Traffic safety inspectors for failing to keep their vehicles clean.

 Mr Kofi said although the contractor often sprinkled water at the site, it left the ground unfavorable to walk upon, and expressed fear that should it rain, the place would hold water and there would be nowhere for them to park their vehicles.

 He also highlighted that the new bus stops were not favourable when it was dark, and that they would be forced to knock off early for their own safety.

 Another combi driver, Mr Karabo Phiri said the situation would put  the lives of passengers at risk, as there would be no transport to carry them after 6 pm.

Some passengers said their safety and security during the day and night had been compromised.

Some urged the police and contractor to patrol the places in the evening to secure their safety. ENDS