The Gutu District Civil Protection Unit (CPU) has heightened its disaster preparedness efforts following a near-tragic incident in which a Chivhu-bound bus was swept off on Chivake Bridge by flash floods in the early hours of 26 November 2025.
The CPU has since activated its grassroots disaster response structures including awareness campaigns and early warning systems led by village heads. The move comes as the district braces for a potentially dangerous rainy season often worsened by reckless driving during the festive period.
According to eyewitnesses, the incident occurred around 0430 hours when a bus from Mvimvi, carrying six passengers mostly men attempted to cross a flooded Chivake River bridge about 3 km from Chiguhune Business Centre. Heavy overnight rains had submerged the bridge under strong currents. Despite the clear danger, the driver tried to cross.
The bus was swept approximately 20 metres downstream but remained upright. Passengers broke windows and climbed onto the roof the only part above water. Emergency calls were made and alert community members from Eastdale Ranch, Mvimvi and Chiguhune responded quickly. Using a rope tied to the bus carrier, all passengers were safely evacuated. One woman sustained leg injuries and was treated at Chiguhune Clinic.
The CPU dispatched a rapid response team including members from the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) and Gutu Rural District Council. Initial access via Lionsdale Road was blocked due to flooding, forcing a longer route via Mupandawana.
The incident has reignited memories of the devastating Popoteke Bus Disaster of the 1990s, highlighting Gutu’s vulnerability to flooding.
The district lies within the watersheds of major rivers such as Devure, Nyazvidzi, Popoteke, Mutirikwi and Shashe areas prone to seasonal floods.
In light of this, the CPU has urged residents to report emergencies immediately, stay alert near rivers and streams, and assist children crossing flooded areas especially following last season’s learner drowning.
With the rainy season intensifying, Gutu District remains on high alert.
