Beit Bridge agents blame Zimbabwe for traffic slowdown

LEONARD NEILL FORWARDING AGENTS on the South African side of the Beit Bridge border post have lodged a protest with Zimbabwean transport authorities about a border traffic slowdown which they allege has been caused by Zimbabwean regulations. These involve the slow pace of construction of a new parking area for trucks and use of the bridge across the river built by the Zimbabwean-based New Limpopo Bridge Company (NLB). “Zimbabwe is still building its new parking areas on their side, and they also require trucks to go through a weighbridge before proceeding to customs. This means a lengthy hold-up of trucks wanting to get through after clearing on the South African side,” says Beit Bridge Border Clearing Agency’s Brian Kalshoven. “NLB officials come over to us on a regular basis demanding that no vehicles stand on the bridge itself. This, in turn, creates a blockage of trucks waiting to leave the South African side. “Customs here is trying hard to have this changed, and SAAFF is waiting for a decision. But it seems this must come from Harare headquarters. We have now asked for the matter to be taken to the highest level, involving the country’s ministry of transport if necessary. “After all, South Africa is bending over backwards to help Zimbabwe. But there doesn’t appear to be reciprocity as far as this border post situation is concerned.”