Dear Editor,
As a regular traveller, via public transportation, I fear for my life, and the lives of other citizens of this country. The zero tolerance on speeding has not been effective, in curbing this dangerous driving. I am sure many are of the same opinion, after they have the experience for themselves.
Minibus drivers in Corentyne, continue to speed and drive recklessly on our public roads. The main reason for this is to earn an extra dollar. It seems as if they no longer view passengers as people, but as commodities. There is no respect for the life of other road users. Their own life, seem to lack value, when one observes how dangerous they drive. These races on the road have caused many near-misses incidents, which could be tomorrow’s fatal (loss) incident.
Those in authority must always take proactive measures to prevent any fatalities on our roadways. Radar guns usually target the wrong persons, because of malpractices. Many drivers especially minibus and hire car drivers know their way out, when caught speeding. Furthermore, radar guns do not control the speed that drivers drive, for their entire journey. As soon as a racing minibus driver passes a police officer, he resumes his speeding and recklessness. I am quite sure that police officers are aware of this. I observe that officers concentrate on areas where the speed limit is lower than 80 km/h.
Therefore, I am herby calling on traffic officers to conduct regular patrols on our public roads, especially during peak hours. Drivers will not pass a patrol car that is driving in front of them, at a reasonable speed. I think this is the most effective proactive measure to ensure that drivers comply with safe driving practices. At the same time, I would like to urge passengers to speak out for their own safety.
Yours faithfully,
Nabeel Mohamed
