The City of Kadoma’s introduction of a prepaid parking fees management system has sparked a mixed reaction from motorists.
While some motorists have welcomed the move as a necessary measure to improve parking services, others expressed concerns that the scheme was a money spinning venture.
The City of Kadoma rolled out the new prepaid parking fees management system last week.
Areas within the designated central businesses district (CBD) bordered by Kaguvi, Mashonganyika, Campion and Josiah Tongogara roads are subject to prepaid parking fees.
Heavy vehicles are also now prohibited from the city centre.
“It is about time we had a proper parking system in Kadoma and it is going to make it easier for people to find parking spots and reduce congestion in the city.” said former Kadoma mayor Action Nyamukondiwa.
However, not everyone is convinced.
“The proposed US$1 per hour daily fee is too much for us to bear, considering we operate full-day,” said Victor Gayihayi, a taxi driver.
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“We are not against paying fees, but we need the council to understand our challenges and consider our situation.
“We hope they can find a way to make it work for us.”
Business people operating in the city centre were concerned about the potential impact of the proposed fees on their businesses.
“A lot of my customers come from out of town and might not be willing to pay for parking.” said Roy Dawa, a local businessman
Senior citizens pleaded with the city fathers for exemption.
“As senior citizens, we deserve special consideration when it comes to parking fees,” said one elderly resident.
“We hope that the city will take our needs into account and provide us with some relief.”
Kadoma mayor Nigel Ruzario, said that the council would take into consideration concerns of the motorists.
“We appreciate the feedback from our residents and will take it into account as we move forward with the prepaid parking system,” he said.
“As part of our efforts to improve parking services in the city, we are committed to ensuring that all parking bays are clearly marked and well-maintained.
“This will not only enhance the overall parking experience for motorists but also help to reduce congestion and improve traffic flow in the CBD.”
In Harare, motorists are complaining about the controversial payment system being used by City Parking, a subsidiary of the Harare City Council.
In 2023, the Local Government ministry appointed a committee to investigate the conduct of Harare City Council with regards to the issue of parking fees.
