Speaking during an interface meeting, CEAR Managing Director Hendry Chimwaza said the issue of encroachment is on the rise, causing accidents that would have been prevented if communities adhered to the 15 metre space that the company reserves when constructing railway lines.

Chimwaza said the stakeholders will take messages to their subjects on the dangers of vandalizing the lines and waste dumping by traders operating near the railway lines.

“We have people building houses and groceries a few metres away from the railway line. This is very risky and causes accidents. At CEAR, we believe that every life matters that is why we want the stakeholders to take the message to their people so that we can avoid as many accidents as possible,” explained Chimwaza.

During the meeting, Chimwaza pleaded with General Secretary for Minibus Owners Association of Malawi Coxley Kamange to pass on the message to minibus drivers who park along the railway lines as this is another recipe for fatal accidents.

The meeting brought together chiefs, minibus operator representatives, Blantyre City Council and Police among others.