By 
A chain of events has contributed to the spiking of kombi prices as passenger grabble for a seat.
In the past few days several commuters have been left stranded as taxi fares skyrocketed due to shortage of transport which can be attributed to bad roads, reckless driving and rain-related traffic chaos. On Thursday, transport from town to Glenview was a whopping $3, with other taxis also moving from the usual $1 to $2 and those feeling generous only charging $1.50.
By Gamuchirai Mapako
The recent heavy rainfalls have brought disorder to the roads. Harare’s narrow and already congested roads have become impassable, with taxis and other vehicles getting stuck in potholes dug deeper by the rain creating massive traffic.
Because of this, motorists are rushing to find other ways to get around, which increases demand for taxis. Drivers are cashing in on the high demand and demanding more money.
This ordeal is not new to those who commute in Harare, drivers are known to increase kombi fares during the rainy season as people are desperate and willing to pay the said prices.
When met with disapproval, most kombi drivers, however, argue that the increase is necessary to compensate for the time spent stuck in traffic because they have targets to meet.
The situation becomes a battle against targets against bad roads and reckless driving as drivers try to catch peak hours.
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