RTSA WARNS MOTORISTS AGAINST CONTRAVENING

By Kalobwe Bwalya

THE Road transport and safety agency (RTSA) has advised public transporters to adhere to the road traffic rules to avoid being in conflict with the law.

RTSA acting Head Public Relations Mukela Mangolwa says the Agency has noted with concern that drivers have been abrogating road traffic rules with impunity.

Mr. Mangolwa however disclosed that the Agency, in collaboration with the Zambia Police Service, had been conducting joint operations in Lusaka and other surrounding areas to deal with erring drivers on the roads.

He disclosed that operations had been targeting specific offences such as obstruction, pirate taxis, and contravening PSV regulations, as these are the main causes of congestion in the CBD.

He noted that motorists, especially bus drivers, were in the habit of overloading and contravening with the traffic rules will not be spared by the Agency once found.

He stated that some drivers did not have valid driver’s licenses yet were ferrying people to different destinations while others were moving with unroadworthy vehicles.

He disclosed that last week, the Agency conducted a joint operation in Lusaka’s Central Business District and a total number of 44 vehicles were impounded, consisting of 44 minibuses, Rosa Toyota Hiace, and six small private motor vehicles.

“These vehicles were found to be in violation of various offences including contravening public service vehicles regulations and obstructing roadways contrary to the road traffic Act Number 11 of 2002,” said Mr. Mangolwa.

And Mr. Mangolwa said all the impounded vehicles were driven and parked at Zambia Police College – Lilayi, awaiting fast-track court appearances.

He said the agency will continue conducting random check-ups which is meant to bring sanity on the road.

He added that the operation will continue with a focus on traffic de-congestion in Lusaka CBD and 50 traffic officers from various unit stations and RTSA participated in the operation.