WINDHOEK – According to the latest data from the Traffic Law Enforcement Division of the Namibian Police the nation’s roads continue to claim the lives of too many young and productive citizens.
According to the Traffic Law Enforcement Division, over the past seven months 323 people have died and 3 352 people were injured from the over 2 000 crashes recorded so far. And it is again that time of the year for Namibians to embark on long-distance trips for the long weekend holiday, when road carnage is likely to escalate since many people will be rushing to their various holiday destinations.
The coming long weekend which forms part of the approaching Heroes Day commemoration at Omugulugwoombashe slated for August 26, will coincide with the newly revived and popular Olufuko festival featuring bare-breast maidens, as well as the Ongwediva Trade Fair. The long weekend will also usher in numerous lively traditional weddings that usually increase this time of the year.
Most roads will be leading to the north where the Olufuko festival and the trade fair are taking place. It is against this background that Deputy Commissioner Ralph Ludwig of the Traffic Law Enforcement Division yesterday cautioned motorists to drive safely in order to avoid road carnage on the national roads. “Time has taught us that during this time of long weekends, road accidents mostly increase,” he noted.
“Namibians will be travelling as many activities will take place in different regions and our roads will be extremely busy. Windhoek, Outapi and Ongwediva are the most notable to mention, due to the SARPCCO Games 2013 by the Namibian Police Force, Heroes Day celebrations, as well as the Ongwediva Trade Fair in the Oshana Region, so roads will be busy,” he said. Ludwig stressed that as law enforcers they are once again sending a serious caution to drivers and other road users to be patient and to drive safely. He also requested all motorists to concentrate on their driving and also to be tolerant towards other road users.
“Plan well in advance and consider alternatives to get home safely and early. Ensure that vehicles are serviced and are roadworthy. Adhere to speed limits at all times and avoid driving fatigued, rather pull off and rest a few minutes,” cautioned the deputy police commissioner. He warned motorists to avoid driving under the influence of alcohol and alternatively to arrange for substitute drivers. He also urged motorists to ensure that there is enough room when attempting to overtake other vehicles, especially heavy-duty vehicles and trucks.
“Always check your blind spots before overtaking and use the vehicle’s indicator lights when doing so. A right and calm attitude on the road will lead to an accident free road,” advised the deputy commissioner.
According to him, the Nampol Traffic Law Enforcement Division is not only there to enforce laws, but also to save and protect lives and property. As a result, he pledged to enhance police visibility on all roads and to practise zero tolerance to offenders. In addition to the permanent roadblocks, he said temporary roadblocks would also be erected and highway patrol vehicles will engage in preventive operations.
He requested the cooperation and support of all road users in order to avoid accidents and crime in general. Motorists are also requested to report any traffic violations to any roadblock or the nearest police station and to contact the Namibian Police at 10111 or the Motor Vehicle Accident (MVA) Fund at 081 9682 when involved in any accident.
By Albertina Nakale