There have been two additional accidents this week in Madziva and Mt Darwin, only a week after a terrible accident that took the lives of five people travelling to Magunje.
According to insider sources, the high number of incidents using CAG buses is caused by the hiring of inexperienced and underqualified drivers.
“The problem is that some of the drivers are Class 4 licence holders, and the firm hires drivers without doing their due investigation.
Additionally, they use inexperienced young drivers to make up for their low pay.
A former employee who wished to remain anonymous out of concern for retaliation stated, “The drivers are given big targets and end up speeding to meet the ridiculous targets hence you see the prevalence of road accidents involving CAG buses.”
Our insider went on to say that there was reason for concern over the company’s operational approach.
Their methods of operation are likewise intricate.
Although it is a family-run firm, our source stated that the oldest sister, Dr. Afra (Nhanhanga), has her own fleet allocation, and Sam has his own as well. This business approach leads to unnecessary rivalry within the same brand.
As per the regulations in Zimbabwe, bus drivers need to possess a minimum of five O Levels, which includes English language proficiency, a clean Class 1 Drivers Licence (with a clear indication of retesting from the Vehicle Inspectorate Department), a valid Defensive certificate, and a valid Medical Fitness certificate.
It is also recommended to have at least five years of relevant expertise, however according to our sources, CAG Buses’ hiring practices completely contravene established standard operating procedures.
Also read: CAG Bus Proves to be the Deadliest Bus as 5 Perish In Head On Collision
Paradoxically, CAG claims to be a leading provider of the safest, most convenient, effective, and premium public transport service in SADC and Zimbabwe in its mission statement.
The Transport Minister, Felix Mhona, stated on Monday that it was disheartening to learn that, just from December 15 to December 26, 2023, there were 87 fatalities and 424 injuries due to traffic accidents.
He also threatened to cancel licences for operators who are found to be in violation of the law.
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