Putco, one of South Africa’s largest public transport operators, is gearing up for an ambitious logistical operation during the upcoming Easter weekend. The company has announced plans to deploy around 500 buses to transport members of the Zion Christian Church (ZCC) to the church’s headquarters in Moria, Limpopo.
The annual pilgrimage, which draws tens of thousands of worshippers, is a cornerstone event for the ZCC, one of Africa’s largest religious movements. This gathering marks a time of spiritual reflection, communal worship, and renewal for its members. To ensure smooth transit for the pilgrims, Putco has established a comprehensive plan involving large-scale coordination and enhanced safety measures.
Putco’s Chief Operations Officer emphasized the importance of meticulous planning for the event. Transporting thousands of passengers over a short period is a complex task. We’ve been working closely with ZCC leadership and local authorities to ensure all routes are optimized, and our buses are in peak condition for the journey, they said.
The company has designated specific pick-up points across several provinces, ensuring that members from urban and rural areas can access transportation easily. Routes have been mapped out to minimize delays, with contingency plans in place for emergencies or unexpected traffic issues.
Safety is a top priority for Putco during the operation. Each of the 500 buses will undergo rigorous inspections before departure, with additional maintenance crews on standby throughout the weekend. Drivers have been briefed extensively on safety protocols and will operate on carefully planned schedules to prevent fatigue.
Passenger comfort has also been taken into account. The buses will be equipped with basic amenities to accommodate the needs of long-distance travelers, and additional support staff will be on board to assist elderly passengers and children.
The ZCC pilgrimage is not only a significant religious event but also a boost to the local economy in Limpopo. Businesses in and around Moria, from food vendors to accommodation providers, anticipate a surge in activity over the Easter weekend.
Putco’s involvement highlights the importance of private-public partnerships in facilitating large-scale events of cultural and spiritual significance. This initiative underscores the critical role of reliable transport infrastructure in enabling community participation in such gatherings.
Putco has urged other road users to exercise patience during the busy weekend, particularly on key highways leading to Moria. We understand the increased traffic can cause inconvenience, but we appeal for cooperation and mutual respect to ensure a smooth experience for everyone, the COO added.
The operation reflects Putco’s commitment to supporting South Africa’s diverse communities and their traditions. As the buses roll out this Easter, thousands of ZCC members will embark on a journey of faith, solidarity, and renewal—a testament to the enduring power of collective effort.
