By Mohammad Tijjani
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Kaduna State Sector Command, in collaboration with the State Judiciary, has launched a special intervention operation to curb overloading and reduce road traffic fatalities on the Kaduna-Abuja Highway.
The Sector Commander, Corps Commander Andrew Longkam, said the initiative was necessitated by the high rate of overloading on the route, which has contributed significantly to fatal road crashes, on Thursday in Kaduna.
“We are here because we have organised a special intervention operation between the FRSC Kaduna Sector Command and the Kaduna State Judiciary.
“The purpose is to address overloading, which is very rampant along the Zuba–Kaduna road and has led to high fatalities,” Longkam said.
He explained that commercial vehicles often exceed their passenger capacity, increasing the risk and severity of crashes.
“It is common to see vehicles designed to carry four passengers conveying up to nine, and others meant for seven passengers carrying as many as 15. In the event of a crash, the mortality rate becomes very high,” he added.
According to Longkam, the operation targets critical traffic offences that frequently result in fatal accidents, noting that enforcement will be sustained.
“This is a routine intervention focusing on offences that are critical and often lead to high fatalities on our roads. We will continue with the exercise,” he pledged.
He added that the corps would complement enforcement with public enlightenment campaigns in motor parks, mosques, and churches to promote road safety awareness.
According to him, so far, during the operation, 18 offenders have been apprehended.
“Out of the 18 offenders, 10 were booked for overloading, which is our primary focus. Others committed offences such as tyre violations and number plate infractions,” he said.
The sector commander urged motorists to adhere strictly to traffic regulations to prevent crashes.
“Road traffic crashes do not just happen; they are caused by violations. Drivers should avoid overloading, speeding, and drunk driving, ensure their vehicles are roadworthy, and properly plan their journeys,” he advised.
He expressed optimism that sustained enforcement and public sensitisation would significantly reduce road crashes, fatalities, and injuries on the nation’s highways. NAN)(www.nannews.ng)