The Maputo City Council has set a 30-day deadline for owners to voluntarily remove hundreds of abandoned vehicles from the main streets and avenues of the capital, in a measure aimed at improving urban mobility, enhancing public safety, and preserving the city’s aesthetics, Lusa reported.
The information was provided by the spokesperson for the Maputo Municipal Police, Naftal Lai, who explained that the voluntary removal operation began on Wednesday (11), following the identification of around 300 abandoned vehicles on public roads last year.
“We still notice that many vehicles are left abandoned on public roads, some already in scrap condition. Our appeal is for owners to cooperate and find an appropriate place to accommodate their vehicles,” said Naftal Lai.
According to the spokesperson, the prolonged presence of abandoned vehicles on public roads has contributed to difficulties in the circulation of people and goods, as well as affecting the organization and urban image of the city.
After the 30-day period, the municipality will proceed with a forced removal operation for vehicles that remain abandoned on the streets and avenues of the capital.
Authorities also emphasize that these vehicles pose additional risks to public safety and health, as they can serve as shelters for criminals, abandoned animals, and breeding grounds for insects.
“Abandoned vehicles can harbor criminals, stray dogs, mosquitoes, and other agents that endanger public safety and health,” added the official.
The operation focuses mainly on the city’s main avenues and high-traffic areas, where most of the abandoned vehicles are concentrated.
Once removed, the vehicles will be taken to the municipal parking lot. Owners will only be able to recover them upon payment of the applicable fees, including towing and storage costs.
