Lira, Uganda – The North Kyoga Traffic Police have issued a call for vigilance and discipline among road users to prevent accidents.
Speaking at a press briefing at Lira Central Police Station on the 23, December 2024, SP Chelangat Irene, the Regional Traffic Officer, outlined key safety concerns and provided practical advice to ensure a safe holiday period.
“We are seeing an increase in traffic as vehicles move from urban centers to rural areas. Combined with ongoing road construction, this creates significant risks,” SP Chelangat said.
Key routes, including Lira-Dokolo, Dokolo-Apac and Oyam-Kampala roads, remain under construction and lack proper signage.
The officer stressed the need for self-discipline among drivers, urging them not to wait for police presence to follow safety rules such as wearing seat belts or controlling speed.
SP Chelangat highlighted several common causes of road accidents and outlined preventative measures.
The leading cause of accidents, speeding often results in drivers losing control of their vehicles. Both riders and drivers were advised to regulate their speed, especially on the region’s incomplete roads.
Many bus drivers attempt multiple trips in a day to maximize earnings, leading to exhaustion.
“If you’re too tired to drive, it’s better to hand over the vehicle to someone else,” she advised.
Drivers were reminded to maintain their vehicles, ensuring that all components, including headlamps and mirrors, are functional. Faulty vehicles have been linked to fatal head-on collisions.
SP Chelangat warned against driving under the influence of alcohol or engaging in “fun driving,” noting that such behaviors reduce focus and increase risks.
Parents were urged not to allow unlicensed holidaymakers to drive, as they lack knowledge of road signs and traffic regulations.
SP Chelangat emphasized that road safety is a shared responsibility. Passengers were encouraged to report reckless driving and other unsafe practices to authorities.
Since October, the police have intensified operations targeting unlicensed drivers, riders without helmets or reflectors and vehicles without insurance. These efforts include issuing tickets, court summons and conducting community sensitization campaigns.
Data from September to November shows consistent fatalities in the region: September: 15 fatalities, 37 serious accidents, October: 18 fatalities, 29 serious accidents and November: 17 fatalities, 37 serious accidents.
Lira City lead in reported incidents, with pedestrians, motorcyclists and passengers being the most affected.
“We remain optimistic,” SP Chelangat concluded. “Our enforcement and community efforts are making a difference, and we hope for a festive season free from major accidents.”
The North Kyoga Traffic Police urge all road users to exercise caution, discipline, and responsibility to make this holiday season a safe one for everyone.
