Traffic Chief Proposes Fines Increase to Address Rising Road Deaths.

Traffic Chief Proposes Fines Increase to Address Rising Road Deaths.

Traffic Chief Proposes Fines Increase to Address Rising Road Deaths.

In response to the surge in road deaths in 2023 compared to the previous year, Traffic Chief Senior Superintendent Mahendra Singh has announced a series of strategies aimed at reducing accidents on Guyana’s roads.

Addressing senior police officers in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), Singh identified driving under the influence, speeding, and inconsiderate road use as major contributors to serious accidents. To address this, he proposed increasing fines for speeding from $7,500 to $25,000 and for failure to wear seat belts from $7,500 to $35,000. These proposals have already been submitted, along with new ticket-based offenses awaiting approval.

Recognizing the police’s pivotal role, Singh emphasized the need for increased police visibility day and night, suggesting the realignment of shifts to address specific problematic areas. He also highlighted the importance of properly calibrated speed guns, indicating that the current fleet will be calibrated by October, with the acquisition of 120 new speed guns expected soon.

Singh urged drivers to change the culture of late departures, which contributes to impatience on the roads. He also noted issues with poorly maintained vehicles, poor parking choices, and roadside vending, which presents challenges for law enforcement.

Reiterating the importance of collaboration, Singh emphasized an unbiased approach to enforcement and engagement with all stakeholders to apply positive pressure on road users. He underscored shared responsibility for road safety, involving both general duty and CID officers.

As part of re-implemented strategies, Singh mentioned ongoing engagements with bar owners to promote safety awareness and the use of the entertainment industry to boost road safety and security. The Traffic Chief also committed to publishing information about traffic violations and convictions.

In 2023, Region Six reported 19 road deaths from 16 fatal accidents, reflecting a 20% decrease from the previous year. As of the latest update, the region has recorded two serious accidents in 2024 compared to six during the same period in 2023.

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