– motorists, pedestrians and revellers urged to exercise caution, obey traffic directives and take responsible steps during Independence festivities

AS Guyana begins celebrations for its 60th Independence Anniversary today, the Guyana Police Force’s Traffic Department says it has intensified patrols and traffic management operations nationwide to ensure public safety amid an expected surge in road traffic, entertainment events, and visitor arrivals.
Speaking on the latest edition of Police Round Up, Traffic Chief and Assistant Commissioner of Police, Mahendra Singh, said the force has activated strategic deployment plans aimed at reducing congestion, preventing accidents, and maintaining order during the Diamond Jubilee festivities.

“Our ranks are on patrol, and the dominance patrol is to ensure continuous progression, limiting every opportunity for an accident,” Singh said, while stressing that the department’s operations are focused on ensuring the “general safety of the public” and all categories of road users.
The heightened police presence comes as Guyana prepares for a packed calendar of Independence activities, including cultural showcases, concerts, flag-raising ceremonies, and late-night celebrations expected to attract large crowds across the country.
According to Singh, traffic ranks have already been strategically positioned at major intersections, busy traffic corridors, transportation hubs, and event venues to guide motorists and pedestrians and to ease congestion on heavily travelled routes.
He noted that the force will rely on a combination of mobile and foot patrols, traffic signage, and increased technological support to manage the movement of people during the celebrations.
The Traffic Chief also pointed to the challenges posed by Guyana’s rapidly expanding infrastructural network and ongoing construction activity, particularly in areas where large crowds are anticipated.
“Across the country where event venues are, we must factor that construction is taking place as well,” Singh explained, adding that areas with heavy bus traffic and pedestrian movement will see increased police monitoring.
The warning comes at a time when Guyana’s road network is undergoing significant transformation through major highway expansion and urban development projects, particularly along the East Coast and East Bank Demerara corridors. Authorities have repeatedly cautioned that unfamiliar road layouts, increased traffic volumes, and speeding continue to heighten accident risks.
Singh also issued a special appeal to tourists and returning Guyanese expected to travel throughout the country during the Independence celebrations.
He reminded visitors that many roadways have changed significantly in recent years and urged motorists renting vehicles to ensure they are familiar with local traffic regulations, speed limits, and road signage.
“When you were here the last time, you may not have had one of the roads that you presently have,” Singh said, while encouraging motorists to comply with police directions and maintain heightened situational awareness on the roadways.
He stressed that the force’s efforts are intended not only to protect residents but also to support Guyana’s growing tourism sector by creating a safe and organised environment for visitors.
Police also indicated that special consideration will be given to vulnerable road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists, and persons living with disabilities.
Meanwhile, impaired driving remains a major concern for law enforcement authorities during the holiday period, particularly with late-night entertainment events expected throughout the anniversary celebrations.
Singh urged revellers planning to consume alcohol to make transportation arrangements in advance by using taxis or designated drivers rather than getting behind the wheel while intoxicated.
“We are not discouraging you from imbibing, if that is the way you celebrate, but we will tell you that is unlawful,” he stated, referring to driving under the influence.
The Traffic Department has in recent years intensified enforcement exercises targeting speeding, reckless driving, and impaired driving, all of which remain leading contributors to serious accidents and road fatalities in Guyana.
Authorities are now appealing for collective responsibility from motorists, pedestrians, and revellers alike to ensure the country’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations are conducted safely and without tragedy.