By As Easter approaches and travel surges across the country, the Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety has appealed to the public to speak up against reckless drivers to prevent avoidable tragedies on Uganda’s roads.
In a message delivered ahead of the holiday, the Directorate’s communications and Liaison Officer Micheal Kananura urged passengers and road users not to remain silent when faced with dangerous driving. The call comes as traffic volumes are expected to spike during the festive season, a time that often sees a rise in road crashes, injuries, and fatalities.
Related
40 Students Injured in Tororo Truck Accident En Route to Patriotism Event
12 Dead, 6 Injured In Fatal Bugiri Road Crash
Five dead, 21 Injured In A Multiple Car Crash On Kampala-Bombo Road
“To passengers, speak out against reckless driving. Your voice could save lives. To drivers, remember that every decision you make behind the wheel affects many lives including your own”. Kananura stated
The Directorate reminded the public that road safety is a shared responsibility, and community vigilance is key in holding drivers accountable. Too often, according to police, crashes occur not because help wasn’t available, but because no one spoke up in time.
As part of its Easter safety campaign, the Directorate also re-emphasized key traffic guidelines. Motorists are reminded not to drink and drive, as alcohol impairs judgment and is a major contributor to fatal crashes. Speeding remains one of the leading causes of road deaths, and drivers are urged to strictly adhere to speed limits. All vehicle occupants must wear seatbelts, while motorcycle riders and their passengers are expected to wear helmets at all times. The use of mobile phones or other distractions while driving is strongly discouraged, and drivers are reminded to respect traffic signs and signals. Extra caution is advised near markets, schools, and pedestrian crossings, where the most vulnerable road users are often at risk.
Also Read
CDF Muhoozi Names Maj Gen Otto New Chief of Defence Intelligence
Bobi Wine’s Bodyguards Committed to High Court for Trial: A Timeline of Events
Baguma 28, Who Attempted To Attack Museveni At Kawempe Rally Pleads Guilty
Kananura emphasized that the Directorate is not only relying on public vigilance, but is also stepping up its enforcement efforts nationwide. During the Easter period, there will be increased patrols and checkpoints, with special focus on unlicensed drivers, vehicles in poor mechanical condition, drunk-driving, reckless driving, and compliance with designated bus routes. Proper vehicle identification, including visible and legal number plates, will also be enforced.
While enforcement will be heightened, police say lasting safety depends on the behavior of individual road users. “We are doing our part, but we need the public to do theirs. Don’t be a passive passenger speak out. Call out reckless drivers. Report them, if necessary,” Kananura urged.
The Directorate has availed a toll-free number 0800199099 for reporting unsafe driving and road violations.
1 Comment