Mondial travel agency suspension strands passengers, workers
KUMBA, Cameroon ( CNA)- The one-month suspension of Mondial Travel Agency has sparked a local crisis, impacting not only stranded passengers and students, but also the livelihoods of the agency’s workers and businesses reliant on passenger traffic.
Last week, a Mondial driver was involved in an accident at La Falias Hill in the West region, killing 6 and injuring 22 persons. This incident led transportation authorities to suspend the agency’s operations for one month. The driver responsible was also suspended for a year.
The suspension has left many passengers scrambling for alternative transportation. This includes university and high school students hoping to reach their hometowns for the holidays.
“I was supposed to travel home to Bamenda today for the break,” said university student Luc Mbome. “But with Mondial’s buses grounded, I’m stuck with no way to get there. They’re the only direct option, and I’m worried I won’t make it home in time.”
The consequences extend beyond stranded passengers. Mondial’s workforce now faces a month without pay due to the halted operations.
“This suspension is a major blow for us workers,” said Mondial employee Fatima Ndong. “Most of us rely on our monthly income, and going a month without any wages will be incredibly difficult. It will put a strain on our families as well.”
The suspension has also significantly impacted the local economy around the Kumba bus station in the SOuth West region. Business owners who rely on passenger traffic report a decrease in sales since the suspension began.
“With fewer people coming through the station, it’s been impossible to run our business normally this past week,” said Awa Nkum, who operates a small food stall near the station.
Calls to Reconsider Suspension
In the meantime, passengers, students, workers, and business owners alike are urging the government to reconsider the suspension. They argue that Mondial’s services are essential for transportation and economic activity in the region.
“This is having a devastating impact on all of us,” said Fatima Ndong. “The government needs to find a way to get Mondial back on the road as soon as possible, before more people suffer financially.”
Uncertain Resolution
It remains unclear whether the one-month suspension will be extended or if there are any efforts underway for Mondial to resume operations sooner. Passengers are advised to monitor the situation and explore alternative travel options if necessary. The suspension has also led to a reported increase in fares for travel from Kumba to other towns, putting further strain on those seeking alternative transportation.
