Story by Fairstars Mukungurutse

MOTORISTS have been implored to adhere to traffic laws to reduce road accidents and fatalities.

Speeding, negligence, vehicle maintenance issues and driving under the influence of alcohol have been cited as significant contributors to road traffic accidents.

This Thursday, the Zimbabwe Republic Police and Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe held a road safety campaign along Seke road where 17 people perished in a road traffic accident last week.

“Drivers must not take advantage of the good road maintenance along Seke road and engage in speeding sprees which put the lives of passengers in danger. We also plead with motorists to observe speed limits, avoid driving under the influence of alcohol. We are advocating for stiffer penalties for those who flout road traffic regulations,” said Officer Commanding ZRP Harare province, Commissioner Maxwell Chikunguru.

Traffic Safety Specialist, KMr Isaiah Mbanje weighed in, “We have procured more than 50 breathalysers for use during the heroes and defence forces holidays and going forward as part of efforts to deal with drunken driving, by drivers breathalysers are going to be a permanent feature of roadblocks in our country. Those found to be intoxicated will face the full wrath of the law.”

Transport operators and motorists have welcomed the initiative.

“It is true that some motorists drive recklessly so this is a welcome initiative and we urge the ZRP and stakeholders to continue with these types of campaigns, it’s a necessary refresher course, said a motorist.

These efforts align with the country’s broader goal of safeguarding road users and curbing traffic fatalities.