Reckless Roads: Are Speed Limits Enough to Curb Accidents?

Opposition Member of Parliament Ketan Lal is urging the government to take immediate action against what he describes as the reckless speeding of truck and bus drivers, as well as other heavy vehicles. His comments come in light of recent accidents, including a notable incident involving a Goundar Shipping Ltd bus in Lautoka.

Lal emphasized the urgency of addressing the ongoing issue of speeding on the nation’s roads, stating that many drivers operating larger vehicles often exceed the national speed limits, thereby endangering the safety of all road users. “We can no longer ignore this persistent problem,” he asserted. “The time for simply raising awareness has passed; decisive action is needed now.”

To address this grave issue, Lal is calling on the Land Transport Authority (LTA) to introduce stricter regulations. He proposes the mandatory installation of speed limiters or Speed Lock Systems in all public service vehicles (PSVs) and trucks on the road, suggesting a cap on maximum speeds at 80 kilometers per hour to align with national limits. He noted that while some transport vehicles are restricted to a 60 km/hr speed limit, the introduction of a uniform speed lock would help offer more flexibility while significantly reducing the risk of speeding-related accidents.

Lal believes that many of the recent accidents could have been avoided and stresses the importance of acting before another tragedy occurs. “We must not wait for another tragic accident to spur us into action,” he said. He urged the LTA, government, and all stakeholders to prioritize road safety and implement the necessary measures to ensure the wellbeing of citizens.

In summary, Lal’s appeal highlights the urgency of tackling a known problem on the roads, advocating for enforceable measures that could lead to a safer environment for all motorists. His proactive stance underscores the importance of preventative action in safeguarding lives.

This call to action reflects a growing awareness of road safety issues and the potential for meaningful change in transportation regulations, ultimately aiming to foster a safer community for everyone.