Albertine region Traffic Police to crackdown on errant drivers
The Albertine region traffic commander Joram Tumwebaze has cautioned both taxi drivers and private people against over speeding and overloading as the country draws nearer to the festive season of Christmas and end of year.
Tumwebaze notes, they are going to intensify their visibility on all roads, and whoever will be arrested violating traffic rules risks paying a heavy penalty or enjoying Christmas behind bars.
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"We know what normally happens as we get to Christmas a car that is meant for 14 you will find 25 passengers, over speeding so that you can have a return journey, we are very visible on the road, and we will not allow the violation of traffic rules, which has an element of risking people's lives," Tumwebaze warned.
He advised drivers to plan their journeys well.
"We know your target is always to make huge monies but the solution is simple, wake up early, get to the road and follow the traffic guidelines. Don't come late hoping to overload the car so that you get more money. that will not be possible under my command of the region."
"When you get to the steering wheel, concentrate .Remember you are taking human beings not luggage. Avoid phones and drink driving. Passengers too, have to be vigilant in case the driver is on phone warn him but if he doesn't listen, take a picture of him report to us we can hunt down for him with evidence," Tumwebaze urged.
However, Wamala Karoli, a taxi driver accused traffic police officers of being corrupt.
"The traffic officers stop a car that is in poor mechanical condition but instead of impounding it, they pick money from the driver and let it go at the expense of passengers lives."
Humphrey Mugisa, the Hoima taxi drivers chairman, says they are engaging all their drivers to be responsible especially during this busy season.
"We are having engagements with our drivers every morning, to drive carefully, be responsible, save but also follow the traffic rules. This is just a season that comes and goes, but life has to continue after Christmas. We don't want to lose any of them, or have them arrested," Mugisa stated
