IT’s not surprising that the PNCR, in its weekly column, would say that enough has not been done for traffic safety, referring to the recent Homestretch Avenue accident, and blaming the Minister of Home Affairs. I think that the PNCR has conveniently forgotten that public transportation is not controlled by the Government and whilst the relevant ministries have put in place measures to ensure safety on the roadways, commuters have to exercise their right to ensure that drivers are cautious and respectful on the roadways.
For too long have commuters allowed drivers to do as they please; it is time for this to stop. It is sad that it takes such tragedies for people to voice their concerns and actively try to create change in whatever little way they can.
I think that the picketing exercise that was held by mothers was a good effort in creating awareness of the rights of passengers and the need for them to stand up and correct these ‘mistakes’ that are made on the roadways. All commuters should support each other in calling for drivers to slow down or drive carefully. People shouldn’t back down, and think that it is not their place to correct the drivers because they are responsible for peoples’ lives.
I think that the Police Force should be commended for its continued vigilance on the roadways and its campaigns because traffic policemen can be seen everywhere these days. While some may want to criticize the Police Force for isolated incidents, we must, I feel, give credit where it is due.
Like so many other issues, the PNCR tries to politicize anything, rather than try to assist in dealing with the situation and making things better for Guyanese.