“It is everyone’s concern to make sure that we get home safe”

– Reg Division 3 traffic authorities stress need for strict enforcement, public awareness

Authorities in Regional Division #3 (Essequibo Island- West Demerara) have emphasised the need for stricter traffic regulations and enhanced road safety measures, as revealed in the latest edition of Road Safety and You.
Senior traffic officials and road safety representatives discussed key changes aimed at reducing accidents and improving public awareness.
Superintendent Maniram Jagnanan, Traffic Officer of Regional Division Three, stressed the importance of compliance with traffic laws.
“We all have a part to play in terms of safe use of the roadway. Road safety is everybody’s business,” he stated during the programme.
Inspector Kevin Bodelall, who oversees traffic operations from Ruimzeight to Hague, West Coast Demerara (WCD) noted that authorities will be increasing their presence in high-risk areas.

“We must ensure that road users follow regulations to prevent accidents and save lives,” he emphasised.
His colleague, Inspector Delon Hilliman, who is in charge of traffic at Vreed-en-Hoop, echoed this sentiment, particularly emphasising pedestrian safety.
“It is all of our concerns and everyone’s concerns to make sure that we get home safe and do what we need to do safely,” he said.
One of the biggest upcoming changes is the temporary two-day closure of the East Bank Public Road in April 2025, due to the construction of the new Demerara River Bridge.
Authorities have already mapped out alternative routes to ease the flow of traffic during this period.

“The 5th and the 6th of April, 2025, due to the construction of the new Demerara River Bridge, there will be a two-day closure,” Superintendent Jagnanan announced. “This closure is to facilitate the smooth operation of the bridge beam that will be placed across the main East Bank Public Road. So, I just want to give you this very important information so you can start planning your journey from now.”

Peter Katanan, Chairman of the Region Three Road Safety Council, also called for public cooperation.
“On the completion of this programme, I am expecting that the viewers and listeners would be able to take home something and make them a better road user tomorrow,” he said.
Kishan Singh, Chairman of the 4B (East Bank Demerara) Road Safety Council, reinforced the importance of cooperation from the public.
“The main thing is for everyone to take away a very valuable piece of information on how to use the road safely,” he stated.
With stricter enforcement and growing public awareness, authorities hope to see a decline in accidents and road-related fatalities. Superintendent Jagnanan concluded with a strong message:
“If we all do our part, we can make our roads safer for everyone. Plan ahead, follow the rules, and be responsible.”