Putco rolls out 500 buses for ZCC’s Easter return to Moria
Putco will operate 500 buses to Moria for this weekend's ZCC’s Easter pilgrimage with SAPS and traffic teams deployed as Limpopo braces for high traffic volumes.
POLOKWANE – Putco will operate nearly 500 buses for the Zion Christian Church’s (ZCC) Easter pilgrimage to Moria this weekend, marking the return of one of South Africa’s largest religious gatherings after a five-year break due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Read more: Heavy Easter traffic expected on R71 as ZCC pilgrims head to Moria
In previous years, the bus operator dispatched close to 800 buses for the pilgrimage, however, this year’s operations have been scaled down to around 50% of previous levels, with the Easter return being phased in to ensure safety and manage logistics.
“All buses assigned to Moria will come from Putco’s newly acquired fleet, fitted with new-generation features designed to enhance safety and comfort for passengers,” said Putco’s media liaison manager Lindokuhle Xulu.
The company has also enhanced its Monitoring Control Centre, which will now live-track every bus using GPS and real-time camera feeds.
Xulu said this allows for early alerts and rapid response to any road incidents, ensuring a safe and smooth journey for thousands of passengers.
The buses began their journey to Moria in the early hours this morning, departing from regions across Gauteng and Mpumalanga. The return journey is scheduled for Monday (April 21).
“Putco will issue regular updates on the progress of the operation at various checkpoints. In partnership with SAPS, additional safety measures have been put in place to protect residents, visitors and businesses during the heightened Easter period,” said Xulu.
The Limpopo Department of Transport has warned of significantly increased traffic volumes on roads leading into the province from this afternoon into the evening.
“To ensure a safe journey, law enforcement officers are already deployed at strategic locations along major routes and critical points to manage traffic flow, curb violations and promote road safety,” said transport spokesperson Tidimalo Chuene.
Motorists are urged to be cautious, especially on the N1 and other key entry routes, and to plan ahead as delays are expected.
