Hundreds of commuters from Sinthumule and Kutama were left stranded on Monday morning, after 17 unroadworthy buses of GM Phadziri bus company were not allowed to continue with their trips by law enforcement officers.

Numerous pupils could not reach their schools, due to the fact that the buses were not allowed to operate.

The incident is part of a campaign by the Department of Roads and Transport to clamp down on unroadworthy buses and the 17 buses were impounded by the officials. Roads and Transport spokesperson Callies Matlala said the operation would continue until all roads were rid of unroadworthy buses and taxis.

Matlala said it was the department’s task to ensure the safety of the commuters and that the condition of the buses be in line with the tough stance by the MEC of Road and Transport, Ms Pinky Kekana, against irresponsible road users. Matlala added that the MEC had ordered that all buses should be re-tested for roadworthiness and permits checked for routes they were operating on. The passenger liability insurance for each bus will also be checked in compliance with legal requirements to run passenger services.

After several incidents of breakage on the buses, the department has recently sub-contracted the Do-Light Bus Service to assist GM Phadziri & sons.

Matlala said the department was also looking to improve services in many areas, including Maila and Vleifontein. “We are taking a tough stand to protect human life and we will continue to do so,” he added.