Police intensify road safety efforts for Independence celebrations

As Guyana celebrates its historic Diamond Jubilee Independence Anniversary, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) has already ramped up traffic enforcement, patrols, and public awareness to ensure the safety of all citizens and visitors.

Assistant Commissioner of Police and Traffic Chief, Mahendra Singh, said that the force has already activated strategic traffic management measures to ensure the safe movement of citizens across the country during the celebrations. Speaking on the latest episode of Police Round-Up, Assistant Commissioner Singh explained that traffic ranks, mobile patrols, and supervisory officers have been strategically deployed at major intersections, entertainment venues, and busy roadways to reduce congestion and minimise accidents.

The assistant commissioner is reminding the public that the overall objective is to maintain a safe and orderly environment while allowing citizens to celebrate responsibly. “Everything that the traffic department does during this period speaks to our shared responsibility for road safety and ensuring the general safety of the public,” Singh stated.

He also stated that the ranks will remain highly visible throughout the celebrations, particularly in areas where large crowds are expected and where ongoing construction may create additional traffic challenges. He urged all road users to pay close attention to signage, police directions and speed limits while travelling. “Signage, you must comply with it. The presence of police providing lawful directions, please comply. Drive at speeds that allow for what prevails in terms of the speed limit of the space you travel,” Singh advised.

The senior traffic officer also highlighted the increasing use of technology to strengthen enforcement and improve response times. He noted that the Guyana Police Force is now able to remotely monitor several locations through surveillance systems and other technological tools, allowing ranks to identify and respond to incidents more efficiently. “We are not standing on the roadside waiting for a report anymore. We can remotely monitor spaces within our country now,” he explained.

With thousands of visitors from the diaspora expected to participate in the Jubilee festivities, Singh reminded motorists, especially returning Guyanese and tourists, to familiarise themselves with local traffic laws and road conditions. He stressed that road safety is a shared responsibility among drivers, pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists. “Each road user has a role to play. You are sharing the road with someone whose life depends on your actions,” Singh stated.

The assistant commissioner also warned against impaired driving, speeding and reckless behaviour, particularly during late-night events and celebrations. While encouraging citizens to enjoy the festivities responsibly, he urged persons consuming alcohol to make transportation arrangements in advance by using designated drivers, taxis or ride-booking services.

“We are not discouraging anyone from celebrating, but driving under the influence is unlawful. Have a designated driver or use alternative transportation,” he urged. Singh further reflected on the continued modernisation of the Guyana Police Force over the past 60 years, noting that the traffic department has significantly improved its mobility, technological capacity and overall service delivery.

“Sixty years on, we are far better than we were then. Technology, training and development continue to improve our ability to serve the public,” he said. As celebrations continue across Guyana, the Guyana Police Force is encouraging all citizens and visitors to exercise patience, caution and consideration on the nation’s roadways to ensure everyone gets home safely.