Traffic woes near GPHC a growing concern – Traffic Officer

The Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) is facing an alarming issue that could have life-threatening consequences: traffic congestion caused by drivers who disregard road signs and regulations. The problem areas include Newmarket Street, between Thomas and East Streets, and East Street from Lamaha to Newmarket Street, Georgetown where improper parking and stopping are creating severe obstructions.
According to Deputy Traffic Officer from Division 4 ‘A’ (Georgetown), Inspector Sheldon Wickham, there are clearly marked signs in these areas that prohibit parking and stopping. Despite these lawful placements, drivers continue to ignore the signs, leading to significant delays for emergency services.

“We’ve been receiving numerous complaints from the hospital administration regarding ambulances taking an unusually long time to reach the emergency entrance,” Inspector Wickham said. “You could be that one causing that obstruction, and you can have someone related to you, or one of your loved ones in there. To save someone’s life, you just need one of two minutes”.
The inspector emphasised the importance of adhering to road signs and markings around the hospital and throughout the country. “These signs are there for a reason,” he stated.
In response to the growing issue, the police force has ramped up its efforts to educate and enforce traffic regulations. This initiative includes day and night patrols, and outreach activities aimed at high-risk groups.
“We are entering nightclubs, and bars, and conducting lectures for truck drivers and minibus operators,” Inspector Wickham added.
The struggle with traffic law compliance is not new to Guyana. Over the years, there have been numerous instances where drivers failed to yield to ambulances or, conversely, followed them closely to exploit the cleared path for quicker passage. Such practices not only violate traffic laws but also pose serious risks to public safety.

As such, the police force urges all drivers to act responsibly and comply with road signs, particularly in areas with heavy emergency vehicle traffic. They said there is a need for public cooperation to ensure that emergency services can operate efficiently and save lives.
Inspector Wickham noted that with a strong appeal to all road users, telling them compliance with traffic laws is not optional. He said it is essential for the safety of everyone.
Wickham further stated that the Police Force will continue to enforce these regulations strictly and educate the public on the importance of respecting road signs and emergency vehicles.