By Spy Uganda
The Works and Transport Minister, Gen Katumba Wamala has warned reckless drivers against violation of traffic rules and guidelines ahead of Christmas celebrations.
In a statement released Tuesday, Katumba said the country has so far recorded huge number of accidents that have seen over 80 perish in one week.
He warned, “Drivers who commit serious offences should be arrested and produced in courts of law. You might spend the rest of the festive season in the coolers because you might find that magistrates in the courts of law could have gone for festive season. If you are not careful, you might spend the entire festive season behind the bars.”
As one of the measures to curb the accidents, Katumba said there will be tight deployment of traffic officers on various roads countrywide.
“Traffic Police will ensure all drivers involved in road crashes have their fingerprints taken to see whether they are habitual offenders and will also be tested for alcohol,” said Katumba.
He said this time there will be less penalties but more arrests against traffic law breakers.
Katumba cautioned buses and passenger service vehicles to comply with the provided route chats and there should be no return journeys.
Over 80 Perish To Accidents
Gen Katumba said that in the past week alone from December 11th to 17th, 390 road crashes were registered, of which 71 were fatal, 202 were serious and 117 were minor
“83 lives were lost and 297 were seriously injured,” the Minister said.
The rise in the road carnage is being attributed largely to high traffic volume on the road as people ahead of Christmas.
Meanwhile, Gen Katumba also reminded the public that the threat of terrorism is still around, and therefore directed bus owners and operators to ensure checking of luggage and passengers especially those picked along the way.
