The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) is calling on all stakeholders in the transport sector to be more vigilant as schools reopen for the second term this week. With the return of students to their learning institutions, the authority has highlighted the need for heightened safety measures to ensure that both passengers, especially children, and road users are kept safe.
In a statement issued through its official social media platforms, the NTSA urged motorists to carry out thorough checks on their vehicles to ensure they are in optimal condition. The authority emphasized the importance of ensuring that vehicles are fully functional and free of any mechanical issues that could potentially endanger passengers. This includes checks on brakes, tires, lights, and other essential components that ensure a smooth and safe journey.
Furthermore, the NTSA stressed that all drivers should ensure they have the necessary documentation, including valid driving licenses, vehicle registration, and comprehensive insurance coverage. This is to avoid any legal complications that might arise during routine checks by traffic officers and to enhance overall road safety standards.
The authority also called for greater supervision of children, particularly when they are being transported to and from school. It urged parents, guardians, and school administrators to identify safe and reliable vehicles for transporting students, noting that these vehicles should be well-maintained and equipped with appropriate safety features. The NTSA emphasized that proper supervision of children is crucial to ensuring their safety, especially when boarding and alighting from vehicles.
In its communication, the NTSA reminded the public of past incidents where reckless driving, coupled with distractions caused by students, led to serious accidents resulting in fatalities and injuries. Some of these accidents have been attributed to speeding, failure to observe road signs, and general negligence on the part of drivers. The authority emphasized the need for all road users to exercise caution, particularly in school zones and areas with heavy pedestrian traffic during the early mornings and late afternoons when students are commuting.
As part of its efforts to curb road accidents, the NTSA urged all drivers to refrain from using mobile phones while driving, a practice that has contributed to numerous road accidents. The distraction caused by texting or taking calls while on the road is a major factor in accidents, and the NTSA is advocating for drivers to prioritize attention on the road. In addition, drivers are reminded to obey traffic signs, observe speed limits, and be courteous to other road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists.
The reopening of schools for the second term is a time when the volume of traffic on the roads increases, especially around school zones. The NTSA has called for coordinated efforts among transport operators, law enforcement agencies, and the general public to ensure that safety is a collective responsibility. By following traffic regulations and taking precautionary measures, the risk of accidents can be significantly reduced.
The NTSA also highlighted the importance of community involvement in road safety, urging citizens to report any violations or reckless driving to the authorities. By working together, the public and relevant stakeholders can make a significant contribution to reducing road accidents and promoting safer roads for all, particularly children.
In conclusion, the NTSA’s call for vigilance comes at a critical time when the safety of students commuting to school is of utmost importance. Through cooperation and strict adherence to road safety guidelines, it is hoped that the second term will be free of serious traffic-related incidents, ensuring that students and other road users can travel safely to their destinations.
