Dear Editor,
The spate of road fatalities is alarming, to say the least. We all know that there are a number of drivers on our roads who did not take the driving test in order to obtain a driver’s licence. We also know that many traffic cops are corrupt, and that there are civilians who wield authority over certain traffic cops even though in an informal way.
There is also a proliferation of new vehicles which are owned by first-time drivers, some of whom never went through a driving test.
Driving is much more than steering a vehicle. It has to do with concentration, judgment, consideration, anticipation, courtesy, discipline and common sense, among other attributes. We have a great number of undisciplined drivers on our roads today. We have a great number of impatient drivers on our roads too. The minibuses always seems to be in a hurry to get their destinations.
Two letters in the press are worthy of mention, one of which dealt with the incorrect ways in which drivers use the roads. This is so true, and I would like to add that some drivers do not stop in the corner to put off or take in a passenger, but in the driving lane which sometimes results in a traffic build-up.
The other letter suggested charging the passengers along with the conductor of an overloaded minibus. This kind of recommendation tells of the frustration of the writer, as nothing else seems to work.
All in all, our roads are not becoming safer but more dangerous because of the quality of drivers who are unleashed by some people who should know better from their motto of ‘Service and Protection.’
Yours faithfully,
(Name and address provided)
