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The impact of Covid-19 on Rwanda’s transport system
Rwanda recently eased the lock-down and public buses are required to carry fewer passengers to avoid the spread of Covid-19. CNBC Africa spoke to Patrick Nyirishema, Director General of Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority on measures to ensure public transport is safe and profitable.
Thu, 07 May 2020 14:53:52 GMT
Disclaimer: The following content is generated automatically by a GPT AI and may not be accurate. To verify the details, please watch the video
AI Generated Summary
- Enforcement of social distancing and hygiene protocols in public buses to ensure passenger safety
- Challenges faced by the transport sector, including fare increases and operational adjustments
- Government oversight and stakeholder engagement to maintain financial viability and safety standards
Rwanda has recently eased its lockdown restrictions, allowing public buses to operate while adhering to safety measures to prevent the spread of Covid-19. CNBC Africa spoke with Patrick Nyirishema, the Director General of Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority, to discuss the steps being taken to ensure the safety and profitability of public transport in the country. Nyirishema emphasized the importance of social distancing as a critical measure to keep passengers safe. Buses are now limited to carrying up to 50 percent of their usual capacity, with designated seating arrangements and marked standing areas at bus stops to avoid crowding. Additionally, passengers are required to wear face masks and practice hand hygiene before boarding. Bus operators have been instructed to maintain higher cleanliness standards, ensuring that buses are sanitized daily.
Despite the initial challenges, such as a shortage of operational buses on the first day of easing restrictions, the transport sector has since seen a smoother operation with 100% of the fleet operational. The government's guidelines urging organizations to have only half of their staff physically present in offices have contributed to a decrease in daily traffic, allowing for easier implementation of social distancing measures within buses. By closely monitoring passenger volumes and revenues, authorities are ensuring that bus companies can sustain their operations without incurring significant losses.
However, the increase in transport costs, though below 50%, has raised concerns among passengers. Nyirishema explained that the decision to raise fares was necessary to offset the revenue loss resulting from operating at half capacity. Factors such as reduced fuel prices and loan repayment extensions have influenced the moderate fare increase. Bus operators have been closely monitoring daily transactions to gauge the financial viability of the current pricing structure.
Addressing complaints from fuel suppliers about the impact of price reductions on their old stock, Nyirishema assured that the revised prices accounted for their losses. The authorities engaged with industry stakeholders to ensure that the pricing model was fair and sustainable for all parties involved. The gradual lifting of restrictions for taxi motorcycles, a significant employer in the informal sector, poses challenges due to the inability to enforce social distancing measures effectively. While acknowledging the importance of this mode of transport for many Rwandans, Nyirishema emphasized the priority of public safety and the need to evaluate the situation before allowing motorcycles to operate again.
As Rwanda navigates the delicate balance between economic revival and public health, the transport sector continues to adapt to the new normal imposed by the pandemic. By implementing stringent safety protocols and monitoring key metrics, authorities aim to ensure the sustainability of the transport industry while safeguarding the well-being of passengers and workers.
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