As the festive season approaches, the Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety has intensified countrywide enforcement operations aimed at reducing road crashes and ensuring a safe and enjoyable holiday period for all road users.
The operations, code-named “Arrive Alive,” focus on curbing traffic offences and enforcing compliance with road safety regulations across the country.
According to the Directorate, 644 drivers were apprehended in the past week for various traffic-related offences. These included 325 motorists operating vehicles in dangerous mechanical conditions, 124 drivers cited for reckless driving, including speeding and dangerous overtaking, and 123 cases of illegal vehicle modifications.
Other offences recorded include 23 drivers arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol, 17 for driving without valid licences, 14 for dangerous loading, 10 abandoned vehicles, and eight cases of passengers being carried in dangerous positions.
Traffic Police said the operations will continue throughout the festive season, also targeting violations such as driving without route charts or driver badges, use of forged documents, breach of operators’ licences, carrying excess passengers, and other offences that pose a risk to travelers.
Strict directives issued
The Directorate has issued a stern warning to motorists and transport operators to strictly comply with traffic regulations, emphasising that buses travelling distances of more than 300 kilometres must not undertake return journeys within 24 hours.
Only buses with valid route charts and PSV licences will be allowed to operate, while all drivers must possess valid driving licences. Bus drivers are also required to carry driver badges at all times, and a clear photograph of the driver must be displayed inside the bus.
Traffic Police further warned that school buses and unauthorised private vehicles will not be permitted to operate as public service vehicles.
All vehicles, according to the Directorate, must be in good mechanical condition, including proper tyre pressure, functional brakes, and adequate lighting. Motorists have also been urged to observe speed limits, especially in areas with high pedestrian activity, and to avoid overtaking in risky areas such as hills, corners, and busy road sections.
Drivers were cautioned against using mobile phones while driving, and reminded that seatbelts are mandatory, while all motorcyclists and their passengers must wear helmets.
Above all, the Directorate emphasised: “Do not drink and drive.”
Failure to comply with the directives will result in arrest and further legal action.
Stakeholder collaboration and public awareness
The Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with key stakeholders, including the Ministry of Works and Transport, other government MDAs, the private sector, religious institutions, civil society organisations, the media, and transport operators to enhance road safety.
In addition to enforcement, the Traffic Police said they are conducting public education and road safety awareness campaigns through various platforms to sensitise the public on safe road use.
Members of the public have been urged to remain vigilant while travelling, with the Directorate noting that road safety is a collective responsibility.
For emergencies or to report traffic-related incidents, the public has been advised to contact the toll-free numbers 0800 199 099 or 0779 999 999.
“Let us work together to ensure a safe and enjoyable festive season for all,” said SP Michael Kananura, the PRO – Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety, as he signed off the message under the campaign slogan “Arrive Alive.”
