THE Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has called on drivers to refrain from drinking and driving and urged travellers to report cases of reckless driving, as well as overloading during this festive season.
The festive season is known for recording the highest number of road accidents in the country, mainly due to over-speeding, driver fatigue, drunk driving, and overloading.
According to the Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe, an average of five people die on Zimbabwean roads every day through road traffic accidents which happen every 15 minutes.
Speaking to the media after a campaign to promote holiday safety and security at Mbare, Harare’s largest bus terminus, Commissioner Maxwell Chikunguru, officer commanding Harare Province, emphasized the need for vigilance on the roads.
“Bus drivers must practice safe driving and avoid overspeeding and drinking on the road, as these are the leading causes of accidents,” Chikunguru said.
“We are also urging passengers to report reckless drivers. We have deployed police officers at roadblocks, tollgates, and various points to monitor and ensure safe travel during this festive season.
“Passengers have the right to report drivers who commit any of these offences to the police. This will help prevent accidents and ensure safety for everyone,” he added.
The ZRP’s increased presence on the roads is part of its efforts to curb the rise in accidents typically seen during the holiday period.