Less than 24 hours after the reopening of the road link between the south, center, and north of the country via National Road 220 (N220), on the Chissano-Chongoene stretch in Gaza province, transport fares increased to 850 meticais on the Chibuto-Maputo route. The change caused discontent among passengers, who complained about the sudden rise in ticket prices, now 350 meticais more expensive, according to the newspaper O País.
According to local reports, vehicle traffic resumed after nine critical points along the 38-kilometer N220 stretch, damaged by recent floods, were restored. Traffic has been heavy, with many citizens expressing relief at the reopening, although long queues remain.
Transport operators on the Chibuto-to-capital route justify the fare increase with high operational costs, driven by the precarious condition of National Road 1 (N1), where traffic remains severely restricted, particularly in the Nguluzane area of Xai-Xai district.
Jeremias Mazoio, delegate of the National Road Administration (ANE), acknowledged the severity of the situation, noting that the strong water currents have hindered repair work in the low-lying Xai-Xai area. However, he did not provide a timeline for the completion of restoration works.
Meanwhile, more than 120 trucks carrying various goods remain stranded in Gaza, as the stretch between Chicumbane and Xai-Xai city remains impassable. Pressure on alternative routes is increasing logistical challenges and raising transport costs, directly affecting passengers and operators. Although parts of National Road 1 (N1) have already reopened, notably between 3 de Fevereiro and Incoluane, traffic is far from normal. Several sections, particularly in the low-lying Nguluzane area of Xai-Xai, remain impassable due to accumulated water and fragile pavement.
Authorities admit that repair works are ongoing but warn that full traffic flow is not yet guaranteed. This reality necessitates the use of alternative routes and overloads stretches such as the N220, which, according to transport operators, contributes to higher operational costs and, consequently, increased fares for passengers.
Source: Diário Económico
