Time for Action: Is Reckless Driving Hurting Our Roads?

Ketan Lal, a member of the opposition in Parliament, is urging the government to take immediate action against what he describes as the reckless speeding of truck and bus drivers, as well as heavy-duty vehicles. His appeal comes in light of recent accidents, including a notable incident involving a Goundar Shipping Ltd bus in Lautoka.

Lal emphasized the urgency of tackling this persistent issue, pointing out that many of these vehicles frequently exceed the national speed limits, thus posing significant risks to everyone on the road. He believes that simple awareness campaigns are no longer sufficient and insists that concrete measures must be put into place promptly.

To address this challenge, Lal is advocating for the mandatory installation of speed limiters, also known as Speed Lock Systems, in all public service vehicles (PSVs) and trucks. He proposes that these devices should restrict maximum speeds to 80 km/hr, in accordance with the national limit. While recognizing that certain vehicles are already limited to driving at 60 km/hr, he argues that a uniform speed restriction of 80 km/hr would strike a balance between compliance and road safety, significantly curtailing the likelihood of speed-related accidents.

Lal strongly believes these accidents could have been prevented and stresses the imperative for immediate action, stating, “We must not wait for another tragic accident to spur us into action. The time for awareness is over; it is now time for action.” He calls upon the Land Transport Authority, the government, and all stakeholders to prioritize road safety and implement these critical measures for the well-being of the community.

This article highlights the ongoing conversation around road safety and the proactive steps that can be taken to protect citizens. By advocating for stricter safety measures, Lal is encouraging a collective effort to ensure safer roads, potentially saving lives and reducing accidents in the long run. Focus on the urgency and necessity for effective regulation can inspire greater public support for road safety initiatives.