By Raymond Ozoji, Awka
The Anambra State Road Traffic Management Agency (ARTMA) has issued a stern warning to tipper drivers, truck drivers and other motorists against driving one-way in any part of the state as such traffic violations could be fatal and catastrophic.
The warning is coming few days after a tipper driver driving one-way killed a pedestrian in the state.
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of ARTMA, Engr. Okonkwo Emeka Konti, in a statement, maintained that the reckless actions of some tipper drivers in Anambra State have reached an unacceptable level.
Konti stated that many tipper drivers now deliberately drive against traffic on dual carriageways; preferring the wrong lane to the designated carriageway.
He noted that in several instances, they even cross medians and drainage channels thereby destroying public infrastructure in the process.
He recalled that just a few days ago, a young man lost his life after being knocked down by a tipper driver driving one way. The tragic incident according to him was a painful reminder that one-way driving is not a shortcut instead it is a deadly and criminal act.
Konti said, " ARTMA has carried out extensive public awareness campaigns, issued repeated warnings, impounded offending vehicles, and imposed stiff penalties. Despite these efforts, some tipper drivers continue to disregard traffic laws, putting innocent road users at grave risk.
We therefore call on all Tipper Drivers' Unions and their Chairmen across Anambra State to immediately caution and educate their members. The time has come for every union to take responsibility by ensuring that its members obey traffic regulations.
Be informed that stricter enforcement measures have now been put in place to curb this life-threatening behaviour. Any driver caught driving against traffic will face the full weight of the law, irrespective of the type of vehicle involved."
##
0 Comments