Up to August 28th this year, the number of traffic deaths has skyrocketed by 60.2% compared to the same period last year.
Fatal accidents up to the same date this year have jumped by 46.77% compared to last year’s figure.
Minister of Public Works Juan Edghill yesterday cited the figures when he again appealed for responsibility on the roads.
He noted that the Guyana Police Force (GPF) has revealed that from January 1 to August 28, 2023, a total of 109 persons lost their lives in 91 accidents. For the same period in 2022, he said that there were 62 fatal accidents, which resulted in 68 deaths.
“There is a level of irresponsibility that is practiced by many drivers today, and one has to wonder if this is the cost of development.
“The Government, through the Ministry of Public Works, wishes to make clear that while the country’s road infrastructural programme is extensive, you, the citizens, are the country’s greatest assets.
“Therefore, all of us have a responsibility to ensure the roadways are safe through correct and lawful use. We must practice safety first”, Edghill stated.
He appealed against drag racing.
“I plead with you to avoid the temptation of speed chasing and drag racing on the roads.
Yes, laws will be enforced, but the responsibility of practicing what is lawful lies with all of us.
Additionally, with these accidents, the ministry has taken note of the increased destruction of public property and warns that stricter fines and penalties will be introduced to curb this. In the case of reckless driving, these drivers will be held responsible and made to pay the cost of replacement and or repairs”, he said.
