Annually, road accidents account for a significant number of fatalities and there is no end in sight to this alarming issue.
Some of these accidents on our roads could have been avoided if basic traffic signs and rules were observed by drivers.
The menace is such that it hasn't only claimed the lives of many, but has also left many with life-time injuries.
To ensure the safety of passengers and drivers in particular, the government and stakeholders should join hands to identify the root causes of these alarming rates of accidents on our roads.
However, some believe drugs and alcohol usage might also be the cause. It is high time that the government, especially the Mobile Traffic, carefully Vet the type of individuals being issued driving licence.
Unconfirmed reports suggest that most drivers are issued licences without even going through regular rigorous testing procedures which the law mandates. All those applying for driver’s licence should go through the test. Some believe these unfit drivers get their licences based on 'whom you know' at the police station.
This, according to many, has also contributed to the alarming number of fatal accidents on our roads. As a matter of fact, any driver who goes through such rigorous testing would be able to know what and what not do.
We, however, want to commend the National Road Authority (NRA) and The Gambia Police Force (GPF) alongside key stakeholders for their concern in putting in place traffic signs to ensure safe journey while on our roads.
The NRA should also put an embargo on certain trucks plying our roads during day time especially at the peak of traffic when most people are either going or coming from work. Such trucks should only ply during odd hours when there are less movements on our highways.
The Gambia Police Force has a cardinal role to ensure law and order with much emphasis on the protection and security of the general populace. However, this fundamental role would be hard to achieve, if people who were issued driving licences continue to kill and inflict life-time injuries on the populace.
What is even annoying is that most drivers disregard traffic signs on our roads and most leading to accidents that could have been avoided had they adhered to those traffic signs.
We therefore urged the police high command to look into that and find a lasting solution to the unending issue.
Don't drink and drive because the life you save may be your own!