Rise Up And Enact Tough Traffic Laws To Stem This Accident Rate

Feb 19, 2004

SIR— Let us learn from the tragic accident that involved a petrol tanker and a minibus.

SIR— Let us learn from the tragic accident that involved a petrol tanker and a minibus. It cost us a lot in terms of human loss and the local media. Part of the causes could have been the Valentine excitement with very many people moving in and out of the city and, above all, failure to learn from the past (history).
The traffic Police could have underestimated the outcome of the Valentine Day. It is true that the Police record on traffic and accident control has been good. However, that day they could have also been busy with their loved ones.
All Ugandans should celebrate occasions like Valentine Day with much care since almost all the outcomes are dangerous in one way or the other. Those who understand this normally stay at home till the end of such celebrations. But to the ‘brave’, reckless and carefree, one can go ahead at any cost. Why shouldn’t an accident like the recent one in Mabira Forest happen?
While the Police, like the doctors, need not have holidays but always alert to prevent or control such tragic occurrences. Yes, this is what their profession demands, unless shifts are to allow others to have time for their families. Of course, a good pay would be necessary if they are to register success.
From our rich history, I was able to retrieve an answer that would actually solve future accidents involving fuel tankers. During Amin’s regime, fuel tankers were never, by law allowed to move after 6pm. At 6 sharp, they and the long distance vehicles were supposed to park to give the time left to small and short distance vehicles. This made accidents rare. This went hand in hand with reduced theft and robbery cases. Yes, Amin may have been bad in other aspects but not this one. Let us incorporate it in Uganda’s main strategies to reduce road accidents, as this would make our Police excellent in road safety.

Jacob Waiswa
Kampala

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