CHRISTMAS policing arrangements are already underway to minimise accidents through the festive season.With figures showing a 22% decrease in road fatalities compared to last year, the Traffic Division is determined to keep this figure at a minimum during the upcoming busy Christmas season.
Fulfillment of this mandate is anticipated through special traffic policing arrangements throughout all divisions in Guyana. Addressing the audience at the presentation of Christmas Policing, Superintendent Dion Moore proudly announced a decrease in road fatalities compared to this period last year. “For the year there were only 87 fatal accidents resulting in 103 deaths compared to last year’s 111 fatal accidents resulting in 120 deaths,” announced the Traffic Chief.
Being cognisant of the fact that pedestrians occupied the highest rung of road fatalities mainly caused by speeding and inattentiveness, special emphasis will be given to traffic-congested areas during the festive season where shopping and social activities are most dominant.
In the ‘A’ Division, focus will be on Regent Street, Water Street, the Stabroek area and Main Street amongst others. “Patrols will be placed in these areas so that persons can experience free and uninterrupted road use in Georgetown and its environs,” said the Traffic Chief, adding that vehicles will be escorted by traffic ranks along the East Bank roadways.
Special emphasis will be placed on the prevention of persons driving under the influence of alcohol, speeding, and the use of hand-held mobile phones while driving. In addition, traffic ranks will be clamping down on the overloading of mini buses, illegal soliciting of passengers and failure to wear seat belts.
Even though the traffic division is experiencing financial challenges, it is determined to utilise whatever they have to curb the tragic on-going situation within the ‘A’ division.
Another challenge being experienced by this department is the paucity of street lights which help to cause night accidents. The division says it stands committed to serve all citizens of the country through intense policing during the holiday period.

By Vanessa Braithwaite