By Our Reporter
As the festive season approaches, the Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety has intensified nationwide operations to safeguard road users, rolling out the “Arrive Alive” campaign aimed at reducing accidents and enforcing traffic regulations.
In the past week, traffic authorities apprehended 644 drivers for various violations, including:
- 325 for operating vehicles in dangerous mechanical condition
- 124 for reckless driving, including speeding and unsafe overtaking
- 123 for illegal vehicle modifications
- 23 for driving under the influence of alcohol
- 17 for driving without valid licences
- 14 for dangerous loading
- 10 for abandoned vehicles
- 8 for carrying passengers in unsafe positions
The Directorate emphasized that these operations, which also target route chart violations, forged documents, overloading, and other high-risk offenses, will continue throughout the festive period to ensure safe travel for all.
Traffic authorities issued strict directives for motorists and transport operators:
- Buses traveling over 300 kilometers must not undertake return trips within 24 hours.
- Only buses with valid route charts and PSV licences are allowed to operate.
- All drivers must carry valid licences, and bus drivers must display badges and a clear photo inside the vehicle.
- School buses and unauthorized private vehicles cannot operate as passenger service vehicles.
- Vehicles must be in proper mechanical condition, including functioning brakes, adequate lighting, and correct tire pressure.
- Drivers must observe speed limits, especially in pedestrian-heavy areas, and avoid overtaking in risky zones such as hills and corners.
- Mobile phone use while driving, drinking and driving, and other distractions are strictly prohibited.
- Seatbelts must be worn, and motorcyclists and their passengers must wear helmets.
Failure to comply with these regulations will result in arrest and further legal action.
Traffic Police Spokesperson SP Michael Kananura said the Directorate is committed to working closely with stakeholders, including the Ministry of Works and Transport, other government agencies, the private sector, civil society organizations, religious institutions, media, and transport operators, to create a safe road environment.
“Public education and road safety awareness campaigns are ongoing to sensitize travelers on safe road use,” SP Kananura said. “We urge all road users to remain vigilant. Road safety starts with you—it is a collective responsibility.”
The “Arrive Alive” campaign aims to minimize road accidents, injuries, and fatalities, ensuring a safe and enjoyable festive season for all Ugandans.
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