OVER the period of January 19-25, 2025, the Guyana Police Force Traffic Department conducted an extensive series of awareness sessions, enforcement activities, and community outreach to enhance road safety across the country.
Traffic awareness sessions were held in 15 locations across various Regional Police Divisions. These sessions targeted drivers and operators in high-traffic areas, including Central Kaituma in the North West District, Red Road and Providence Public Road Junction, the Kitty Roundabout, and the GAICO Wharf at Nismes. Engagements also extended to businesses like Nigel’s Taxi Service and Roger Hinds Supermarket in Mahdia, as well as public roadways such as Amelia’s Ward and Regent Street.
Notably, drivers and vehicle owners have begun proactively approaching the Traffic Department to collaborate on delivering road safety messages. This partnership is a crucial step toward reducing accidents and promoting safer road usage.
ROBUST ENFORCEMENT
During the same period, the Guyana Police Force recorded 2,794 traffic offences, underscoring its commitment to road safety enforcement. Among the most common violations were 322 tickets issued for exceeding the speed limit, 145 charges for failing to wear seatbelts, and 11 drivers penalised for driving under the influence.
Additionally, there were 299 cases of tinted glass violations, 190 motorcyclists ticketed for failing to wear safety helmets, and 24 drivers charged for faulty load packing, with incidents of spilled mud and waste on highways noted. Furthermore, 107 cases of unlighted motor vehicles were recorded, including 28 front and 79 rear light violations.
To ensure transparency and professionalism, all enforcement officers were equipped with body-pack cameras. These devices not only protect officers and drivers by providing unbiased footage but also discourage unsubstantiated complaints against ranks.
As part of its ongoing education efforts, the Traffic Department engaged students and teachers at 17 schools nationwide. These sessions covered safe road usage and targeted institutions such as St. Theresa’s Primary in Region 6, Canadian School of Arts & Science in Region 4B, and Port Kaituma Secondary in Region 1.
Traffic ranks also addressed impaired driving by enforcing the Intoxicating Liquor License Amendment Act (2022) at popular entertainment venues, including Raghu Sports Bar at Soesdyke and A1 Night Club in Timehri. Public outreaches were conducted in communities such as Kariako Village in Region 1, Charity in Region 2, and Suddie in Region 2, engaging diverse road users, from pedestrians to cyclists.
To expand the reach of its safety messages, the department aired several programmes on popular radio stations, including 104.3 FM Linden, HJ 94.1, and NCN. These broadcasts aim to inform and educate the public on the importance of responsible road usage.
“The Traffic Department’s multifaceted approach—combining education, enforcement, and community engagement—is yielding positive results. By fostering partnerships with drivers, businesses, and communities, the department continues to work toward its goal of reducing accidents and creating a culture of road safety across Guyana,” Traffic Chief, Senior Superintendent Mahendra Singh, noted when contacted for a comment.