Heavy-duty vehicles, reckless driving spark public concerns

The reckless operation of heavy-duty vehicles, particularly sand trucks, has raised growing concerns among road users. During the latest episode of Road Safety and You, callers voiced their frustrations over the dangers of the vehicles, including speeding, contributing to congestion, and unsafe driving practices by their drivers.
A caller from Region Three (Essequibo Island- West Demerara) highlighted the issue, stating, “The last programme I called in concerning the sand trucks speeding in the night without covering the sand… And then you have the electric bike – four: the mother and three children in it…carry them to school.”
Another caller expressed frustration over how heavy-duty vehicles contribute to traffic congestion and unsafe road conditions. “From the turn to the stelling, people convert the four-lane road to one-lane road. Some park half lane. Bring out the parking, no parking. No parking sign right the way through.”

Traffic Officer of Regional Division #3, Superintendent Maniram Jagnanan, addressed the concerns, explaining that police officers conduct regular enforcement to tackle violations.
“Wherever offences are being committed within the view of the member of the Guyana Police Force (GPF), we take action, charge, place before the court.”
However, despite police efforts, citizens continue to raise complaints about truck drivers violating regulations, without facing consistent penalties.
Infrastructure issues were also noted as contributing to the problem. The caller pointed out, “GPL and GT&T with the low wire on the highway. From Vreed-en-Hoop to Parika. There is a highway. The wire is so low. They put a container on the hook. And all the cars have problems on the road.”
Superintendent Jagnanan reassured the public that police will continue to enforce traffic laws and address violations involving heavy-duty vehicles. “We are taking action, charging, and placing before the court,” he explained.
With ongoing concerns about road safety, the police are urging the public to report violations, and assist in ensuring that heavy-duty vehicle operators follow traffic regulations.
In December, the Ministry of Public Works issued a directive to all truck drivers and operators, prohibiting heavy vehicles from using the Railway Embankment Carriageway, with immediate effect.
This decision was prompted by the rapid deterioration of the infrastructure due to the excessive truck traffic along this route. The Ministry has noted significant damage to the carriageway, posing risks to road safety and hindering its accessibility for other commuters.
As a result, all truck operators must now use the Rupert Craig Highway, East Coast Demerara (ECD) Public Road for transit.
Additionally, the Ministry expressed concern over the growing number of reports about trucks transporting materials along public roadways without proper coverings to prevent debris from being displaced.
When materials are not secured, they can obstruct visibility for other road users and alter driving conditions, often leading to accidents involving unsuspecting drivers and riders.
Truck operators and drivers are therefore instructed to ensure their trays are covered when transporting loose materials such as sand, loam, stones, dirt, garbage, and similar substances.
Failure to comply constitutes an offence under Regulation No. 99 of the Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic Regulations, Cap. 51:02, which is actively enforced by the GPF.