Dear Editor,
I followed the editorial in Guyana Times, regarding the link between loud and aggressive music and its connection to bad driving and accidents. I posit a full embracing of this linking. Loud and aggressive music has a way of affecting the mind and body, so that the listeners are moved from one phase to another. As we all know, the driver is the key person in this ‘loud music’ phenomenon. So it is very important that this issue be addressed.
First, public transportation in places like England, Canada and America is devoid of music. The government buses are bereft of any kind of musical devices. At least I have never heard one of them. Also, in the privately run taxis, a radio is sometimes on, but when a client requests this to be turned off, the request is complied with. In fact, taxi drivers in these countries are known to ask their clients for permission to play the radio. So I think here of reasons for these countries employing a ‘no music’ policy. Even though I do not know all the variables, I am sure that there is more ‘good’ than ‘bad’ in having the ‘silent’ system.
Secondly, I have a very important question for the drivers and owners of mini-buses and taxis. For whom is this music being played? I can also add another question: What is the cost factor regarding the music stereo systems and the keeping ‘up-to-date’ with the current trends in music? I am puzzled by the fact that these operators and owners can have ‘suuped’ up vehicles, sophisticated sound systems, and a wide variety of song selections, and yet cannot have proper AC systems in their vehicles. Guyana is extremely hot, and I suggest that before fitness be given to commercial vehicles, the AC systems be in top working order. People want to travel in comfort; entertainment is not vital.
So in closing, I re-echo a clarion call: ‘rip’ the sound systems out of all commercial vehicles. If and when ‘music’ in these vehicles is outlawed, make examples out of all those who infringe. The fines can be set very high and the vehicles can be impounded. I guarantee a clean-up of this sector in fewer than 10 days.
Yours truly,
Harry Girdharry.