As Christmas festivities are coming within eyeshot, drivers and other road users have been asked to observe traffic and road safety guidelines to avoid possible accidents.
Muzeeyi Faizo, head of media and communication at UPC political party observed noncompliance, reckless behavior among drivers who excessively load their vehicles, drive long routes without taking enough rest especially in merry seasons like Christmas which he says occasionally results into accidents. He urged passengers particularly in public transport to remain vigilant and report any traffic violations to relevant authorities.
“Road safety is everyone’s responsibility. If the driver is over speeding, you (passengers) must control that driver. It is our responsibility to ensure that everything is in order,” Muzeeyi Faizo said in an interview with Parrots Media.
Traffic police report indicate that at least 60 people died in road accidents last year’s Christmas holidays between 23rd December, 2023 and January 1st, 2024. The alarming statistics have prompted police to take actions to cut down reckless driving and prevent further tragedies.
The Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety has directed all business drivers to possess a mandatory driver’s badge issued by the Chief Licensing Officer at the ministry of works and transport as provided in Section 42(2)(e) Cap.347 of the Traffic and Road Safety Act.
“Failure to comply with this requirement constitutes an offence, punishable by imprisonment for a term not exceeding seven years upon conviction as stipulated in Section 42(2) of The Traffic & Road Safety Act. (CAP.347),” said Micheal Kananura, the directorate’s spokesperson.
Kananura has also issued a warning against the use of school buses for passenger transport during the festive season. He stated that school bus drivers may be tempted by the surge in travelers to use their buses, but stressed that such activities are illegal because the said motor vehicles are not licensed to do so.
Kananura said police officers at roadblocks have been instructed to impound school vehicles used for passenger transport. He added that traffic operations have been intensified nationwide to minimize accidents during the holiday season.
