Fewer crashes recorded over festive season

_______________

The Police have reported a reduction in road crashes during the festive season, attributing the improvement to strict enforcement measures and enhanced road safety campaigns.

Traffic Police spokesperson, Michael Kananura, said while the season was marked by heavy traffic, particularly on major highways, incidents of road crashes were relatively few.

“Our joint efforts with the Ministry of Works and Transport paid off. We recorded fewer accidents this festive season compared to previous years,” Kananura says.

“The interventions we implemented, including intensified road checks and safety campaigns, have made a big difference.”

Traffic offences, arrests

Despite the positive outcomes, traffic enforcement operations uncovered several violations, with hundreds of motorists penalized for flouting traffic rules. Kananura highlighted the key infractions:

1. 78 drivers were apprehended for driving without valid licenses.

2. 32 drivers were charged with reckless driving, particularly unassisted driving.

3. 16 drivers were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol.

4. Numerous motorists were caught exceeding speed limits.

“These violations show that some motorists still engage in risky behavior on our roads, but we remain committed to enforcing the law,” Kananura remarked.

Motorcyclists remain vulnerable

While most road crashes involved motorcyclists operating in upcountry areas, Kananura says vehicle crashes were often caused by tailgating, a practice he described as “reckless and dangerous.”

He urged all road users to maintain safe distances to reduce the risk of collisions.

Public transport and partnerships

Kananura, who made the remarks during the weekly joint security briefing at the Police headquarters in Kampala also emphasized the government’s focus on improving safety in public transport, with plans to extend interventions to all Executive Public Service (ESP) drivers, including coastal buses and 14-seater vehicle operators.

“We’re working to ensure that every public transport sector complies with safety standards,” he said.

Kampala Northern Bypass

In a related development, the Kampala-Northern Bypass is set to undergo critical maintenance between the Busega and Kisasi interchanges.

The repairs, which will partially close the affected section for six months, aim to enhance road safety and reduce congestion.