Accidents in Eastern Province on the decline -Police

Rwamagana -Motor accidents on highways in Eastern Province have extremely reduced in the last two months, police say. ACP Sam Karemera, the Regional Police Commander (RPC), revealed yesterday that various means have been devised to prevent accidents that were mainly caused by over speeding of heavy commercial vehicles.

Wednesday, January 19, 2011
One of the trailers that was involved in an accident along the Kigali-Kayonza road last year.( File photo)

Rwamagana -Motor accidents on highways in Eastern Province have extremely reduced in the last two months, police say.

ACP Sam Karemera, the Regional Police Commander (RPC), revealed yesterday that various means have been devised to prevent accidents that were mainly caused by over speeding of heavy commercial vehicles.

"Our road patrols, day and night, have been intensified and have been successful. Kayonza – Rusumo and Bugesera-Ngoma through Zaza and Sake roads are under control. Accidents have significantly reduced. We have had no accidents in the last two months,” he said.

He added that Police check-points were increased and drivers constantly sensitized against reckless driving.

"We mounted a check-point at the notorious Musha spot...drivers are stopped for a while and advised to re-check the systems of the vehicles before they proceed to Kigali,” he said.

The famous Musha corner has caused many accidents on this road. However, he added that more vigilance is needed along Kayonza-Nyagatare highway, where drivers take advantage of few traffic police check-points to drive at high speed.

Dr. Ephraim Kabaija, the provincial Governor, stated that trailers were becoming a menace which prompted authorities to take serious actions.

The governor, however, noted that commuter taxis, particularly omnibuses, continue to drive at a dangerous speeds.

"It is interesting that truck drivers are now cautious. This has led to a reduction in accidents and deaths. Passengers should take it upon themselves to report reckless driving for the good of all,” he advised.

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