Road Safety amidst Independence Celebrations

Activities in commemoration of, and celebrating the anniversary of our national independence, are proceeding smoothly at both the national and local levels. This is despite a growing counter-movement being generated by electioneering in advance of the general elections which are expected by December. At a time when the mood ought to be national unity, the election campaigning is producing the very opposite effect, at the wrong time.

Nevertheless, official events, organised, supervised or approved by the National Independence Committee, are continuing. The pace of these is expected to pick up this week as the independence apex approaches and more organisations throughout the country make their own contributions.

This brings in its wake an intensification of road traffic as more and more people travel with the resultant busy roads especially as school continues during the heightened period. This in turn demands greater caution on the part of road users and responsible conduct on the road. Unfortunately, one cannot say that the message has reached as many ears and eyes as it ought to, given the circumstances.

Instead, what we have been witnessing, gradually at first, but intensifying as the Independence date approaches, is more irresponsible behaviour on our roads. Speeding, and reckless driving are especially noticeable. This is particularly evident in the case of public transport, though one cannot help but mention a growing number of younger drivers of public and private vehicles who appear to regard our roads as speed tracks for road racing.

Given that most of our people, including our pupils and students, as well as elderly folk, and those with some degree of physical disability rely on public transport, we have every reason to express alarm at these developments.

Of particular concern is that the regulations, not just covering speeding, but also where the consumption of alcohol are openly being ignored, drivers and conductors of public transport are openly purchasing and consuming alcohol while carrying out their basic duty, which is ensuring that commuters are transported safely.

How can this be assured with such blatant disregard for road safety regulations? Are we waiting for another major mishap before there is public outrage and necessary action taken on the part of the authorities?

In addition, despite the promulgation of a Noise Act, many vehicles on the road- public and private alike- have now adopted the habit of playing excessively loud music. In the case of public transport, the lyrical content in all too many, is clearly not fit for purpose. There is also the blatant disregard for the public, excessively loud music now being blasted from vehicles at ridiculous hours of the night and early morning hours.

To be fair, there are regular public warnings by the traffic department on public radio,via the internet, and in other media outlets. However, these warnings may just as well be muted or invisible where the perpetrators are concerned. Clearly the demands for public safety on the roads, and indeed, common sense itself, tells us that such behaviour cannot and must not be allowed to continue unchecked-especially given the increasing number of vehicles on the roads. There is indeed a need for Action, Now!

The safety of the travelling public- our infants, toddlers, student population, and the elderly is at stake. We call on the relevant authorities to take firm action with urgency. Remember the old adage, “prevention is better than cure”.