As Uganda continues to grapple with the challenges of road safety, the country’s police force has unveiled a new initiative aimed at reducing accidents and ensuring safer travel for all.
Speaking at a press conference at the Uganda Police Headquarters on Monday, December 30, 2024, SP Michael Kananura highlighted the success of their efforts during the Christmas season.
Kananura revealed that the introduction of route charts has already proven effective in reducing accidents caused by driver fatigue, a common issue during long-distance travel.
“By using route charts, we minimised those who wanted to make return journeys, as fatigue from driving long distances often leads to crashes,” he explained.
The route charts are designed to prevent unnecessary return trips by regulating driver routes, thus reducing fatigue-related accidents.
In addition to route charts, the police will also introduce driver badges to ensure that only qualified and responsible drivers operate public transport.
“The process we use to vet drivers for badges has been very effective,” Kananura said, emphasizing that drivers with bad records won’t qualify for badges.
This initiative aims to reduce reckless driving and improve road safety, and the police are working with the Ministry of Works and Transport to introduce both route charts and driver badges to all minibuses and coasters by 2025.
Kananura also reported on the traffic incidents that occurred during the festive season, revealing that 236 drivers were arrested between December 23-30 for various offenses.
These offenses included driving without licenses, overspeeding, drunk driving, and reckless driving.
One common issue that caused accidents was cars following too closely to each other, leading to accidents.
Kananura urged motorists to exercise caution and follow traffic rules to prevent such accidents.
He also updated the public on the Kampala Northern Bypass construction between Busega and Kisaasi, urging motorists to follow diversions and instructions from traffic officers.
Those with urgent travel needs were advised to use alternative routes.
As Uganda continues to work towards improving road safety, the introduction of route charts and driver badges is a significant step in the right direction.
