Harare, (New Ziana) – The City of Harare has issued a seven day ultimatum to residents and operators of guarded overnight car parks to remove broken-down vehicles, car shells, and scrap materials from shopping centres, open spaces, or on streets outside residences.
In a statement, acting Town Clerk Engineer Phakamile Mabhena said keeping broken-down vehicles and car shells is illegal and contributes to urban decay, environmental hazards, and congestion across the city.
In a recent tragic event, three children who had gone missing in Kuwadzana Extension were discovered in the boot of a broken down Mercedes Benz which was in a car park near their home on the third day of frantic searches.
The boys, aged one and three, had been reported missing on October 1 after vanishing while playing in the neighbourhood, sparking panic and desperate searches.
However, a man who opened the boot of the non-runner Mercedes, which had long been parked among other vehicles in the suburb, made the grim discovery. Police were called and found the three children dead.
“The City of Harare would want to notify residents that it is illegal to keep broken down vehicles at over-night car parks, shopping centres, open spaces and on streets outside residences. Lessees of Guarded Overnight Car Parks must with immediate effect remove broken down vehicles, car shells and scrap from the Car Parks.
“This should be done within seven (7) days starting today. In the event of failure, Council will remove the car shells at a cost to Lessees or owners of the cars,” said Eng Moyo.
He also appealed to residents to assist in identifying abandoned or broken-down vehicles left at overnight car parks, on streets, and in open spaces so that appropriate action can be taken.
“We urge residents to come forward with information on such vehicles to help maintain a clean, safe, and orderly city,” he said.
The move forms part of broader efforts by the local authority to restore order and improve the appearance of the city under its ongoing clean-up and urban renewal initiatives.
New Ziana
