I am extremely grateful that I seldom use the very busy thoroughfares across Guyana. However, I am very concerned over the fact that a missing dimension is not tended to. In Guyana we have more than adequate personnel and resources to deal with traffic violations, but when citizens are not fulfilling their civic responsibilities, they will suffer the negative repercussions. Also, they have no right to complain. First, especially with the minibuses, passengers tolerate all kinds of illegalities-loud music, speeding, discrimination, detours to escape police officers, overloading, and even paying of extra-fares. I have even noticed that some conductors and drivers ‘sip a beer’ and drive. Now when these practices become entrenched, they are difficult to curb and almost impossible to stop. So I suggest that the modus operandi change quickly.
For starters, since half of these problems originate at the various parks, the officers on duty should ensure that the buses leave the park in full adherence to the traffic laws-check for music systems, ensure no over- loading and ‘passenger selecting (especially during busy hours) etc. You see how this will help. When the passengers observe this, they are likely to join the drive. And here is what they should do-say ‘no’ to speeding, overloading and road detours. This combined effort will go a long way. I also suggest that a campaign be launched against taxi and private vehicles as well. They contribute to the chaos. These ‘state of the art’ machines have sound systems that ‘rattle the roof’ and their operators are reckless as well as indifferent to the law.
So yes, I am happy that Traffic Chief, Neil Semple, is taking some serious measures in this regard. It is good to note that he is quite disturbed at recent trends. However, unless and until, the general travelling citizenry decide to be supportive, all may be unavailing. It will also be a great idea (if it can be initiated) if ‘hang out’ spots are frequented by the police at peak hours. Here potential drunken drivers will be ‘caught before’ the fact. Again, I am glad that the Traffic Chief is acting.