EDITOR — The surge in road accidents involving passenger buses on the country’s highways is deeply concerning. What shocks me the most is that the majority of these accidents occur due to human error.
Reckless drivers are costing countless lives on our roads. I am appealing to the Government to implement strict measures to ensure that the number of road casualties is drastically reduced. At this stage, stiffer penalties are necessary, and all bus companies have a crucial role to play in ensuring that they employ experienced drivers who respect and adhere to road rules. People’s lives should never be gambled with.
To address this issue, bus companies should introduce fixed timetables or implement strict working-hour regulations to prevent driver fatigue. It is alarming that some companies force drivers to work long hours without a break to meet sometimes near impossible targets — an unsafe practice that endangers passengers. Fatigued drivers have reduced reaction times and impaired judgment, increasing the likelihood of fatal crashes. Regulations must be strictly enforced to hold such companies accountable.
We should also invest more in modern technologies to monitor driving behaviour on the roads. Speed limiters, surveillance cameras and real-time tracking systems can help ensure that drivers follow safety protocols. Additionally, the Government should facilitate nationwide road safety awareness campaigns to educate both drivers and passengers on responsible road use. As a country, we cannot afford to lose lives due to speeding and reckless driving. All roads should be modernised, widened and well-maintained to improve overall safety.
In the same breath, with the country experiencing heavy rainfall, we must continuously remind drivers to exercise extreme caution on the roadways. Many roads become slick and nearly impassable during rainy conditions, further increasing accident risks. Authorities must enhance road drainage systems and erect visible road signs to warn motorists of hazardous conditions.
To conclude, speed may thrill, but it ultimately kills. We must all prioritise safety over haste. Let us drive responsibly and arrive alive.
Terrence Mwedzi,
Harare.
