THE Guyana Police Force’s (GPF) recent statistics on traffic violations and accidents are a stark reminder of the urgent need to address road safety as a national priority.
While the issuance of nearly 60,000 traffic tickets and the collection of $393 million in fines might seem like a measure of progress, the persistence of reckless driving, particularly speeding, and the alarming number of fatal accidents paint a more troubling picture.

The reduction in fatal accidents and overall road crashes this year is commendable, but the grim reality remains: 85 fatal accidents attributed to speeding in 2024 alone highlight the deadly consequences of this single act of negligence. This underscores the fact that enforcement, while crucial, is not the sole solution to our road-safety crisis.

The GPF’s multi-pronged approach, combining education, enforcement and infrastructural improvement, is a step in the right direction. Public awareness campaigns, defensive-driving training, and partnerships with private and community stakeholders are essential tools in reshaping the behaviour of road users. The inclusion of school lectures and community meetings reflects a commendable effort to instil responsible road use at the grassroots level. However, the sheer scale of the problem demands even more innovative and sustained interventions.

A critical element that remains under-addressed is the cultural mindset surrounding driving in Guyana. Far too often, speed and recklessness are viewed as demonstrations of prowess rather than dangerous behaviour that endangers lives. Public education campaigns must therefore be intensified, employing emotionally impactful messaging to change perceptions and attitudes about speeding, drunk driving, and other hazardous practices.

The Traffic Department’s collaboration with the Ministry of Public Works to improve road infrastructure is a vital component of the broader road-safety strategy. The planned installation of smart traffic lights, illuminated road markings and enhanced traffic signals will undoubtedly improve the driving environment. However, these measures need to be expedited, especially in high-risk areas where poor road conditions exacerbate the dangers of speeding and reckless driving.

Additionally, as housing developments expand and vehicle registrations increase, proactive urban planning is essential. Traffic management must be integrated into the design of new communities, ensuring that roadways, signage and pedestrian zones are built with safety in mind. This is not merely a task for the government; private developers and contractors must also be held accountable for adhering to stringent road-safety standards.

While government initiatives and enforcement play a pivotal role, the ultimate responsibility for safer roads lies with individual road users. Senior Superintendent Mahendra Singh’s call for personal accountability must resonate across the country. Drivers must recognise that their decisions—whether to speed, drink and drive, or ignore traffic rules—have life-or-death consequences, not just for themselves but for passengers, pedestrians and fellow drivers.

The holiday season amplifies the risks as traffic increases and the temptation to engage in reckless behaviour grows. Each road user must approach this festive period with heightened vigilance and consideration for others. After all, the true spirit of the season is one of care and community, values that should extend to our actions on the road.

The GPF’s efforts to enhance road safety are commendable, but are insufficient without the active co-operation of the public and other stakeholders. As Guyana modernises and its roads become busier, the shared responsibility for safe and efficient traffic management must be embraced by all. The enforcement of laws, while necessary, is only one piece of the puzzle; education, infrastructure, and personal accountability must work in tandem to create a culture of safety.

This holiday season, let us heed the warnings and lessons embedded in the GPF’s data. Slowing down, staying sober, and adhering to traffic rules are simple yet powerful ways to save lives. Road safety is not merely a government mandate—it is a moral obligation for each citizen. Together, we can make Guyana’s roads safer, not just during the festive season but for generations to come.