“Third Lane” resumes under stricter controls, better traffic management

One week after the Guyana Police Force’s Traffic Department suspended the “third lane” system following a fatal accident, the practice has been reintroduced.
Traffic Chief, Assistant Commissioner Mahendra Singh said the recommencement of this system on the East Bank and East Coast of Demerara was based on further analysis of the traffic situation.

The third lane system was initially introduced a few years ago to ease congestion during rush hour periods, at a time when road networks were limited.
However, after the fatal accident on October 30, during the “third lane” period, it was discontinued, taking into account that many road users do not prioritise road safety.
The Traffic Chief explained that there are now more connectors to the East Bank and East Coast of Demerara, giving road users additional route options to reach their destinations. Nonetheless, severe traffic congestion continues during certain hours in the mornings and afternoons.
The Traffic Chief said this is due not only to the increasing number of vehicles on the roads but also to poor practices by road users who either breach traffic rules or deliberately leave late, hoping to reach their destination quickly.
He noted that during the recommencement of the third lane this morning, in the presence of Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken, many road users were seen violating traffic laws, including overtaking on the third lane.
“Persons who still have an 8 o’clock job are leaving their homes late, are too busy to plan, and don’t want to factor in convergence from Region 10, Region Two, and Region Three. All of that traffic comes to merge along the East Bank or in central Georgetown.”
He added that the application of the third lane, if not extended as far as possible, can cause problems. In fact, he explained that when the third lane was reintroduced on Thursday morning – under Police management – officers, including the Commissioner of Police, observed several unlawful acts being committed by road users.
Despite these challenges, the traffic chief said the third lane will now operate under stricter rules and better traffic management.
“So, the recommendation is that from today, it will last for one hour whenever it is started, and not less than 50 minutes. Traffic officers, who understand the reasons for its implementation, know what to do. Further support is being provided from traffic headquarters, including the deployment of moving motorcycles, to ensure greater compliance and more stability in road usage.”
The traffic chief further emphasised that traffic officers have been urged to enforce road rules more effectively.
“It seems to me that the traffic Police are the only ones responsible for road safety and ensuring traffic progression. People are not fulfilling their role, and out of convenience, we are blamed for what happens on the road. We will not allow that. Importantly, we will also conduct enforcement at certain points. I want all drivers and road users to take note that when we see you without a helmet, there will be no pardon, warning, or flexibility.
He also pointed out that the Traffic Department is no longer operating in a lenient mode, as past facilitation has caused the public to believe that the Police are either too hasty, not serious, or inconsistent in enforcing the law.
Singh noted that several individuals have publicly criticised the traffic leadership on social media, labelling them as “visionless,” but emphasised that the department is taking decisive action to address these concerns.