SLRSA, Police Launch Road Safety Sensitization Drive in Pujehun

The Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority (SLRSA), in collaboration with the Sierra Leone Police (SLP), has intensified road safety sensitization in Pujehun District, targeting drivers and motorbike riders on the dangers and consequences of vehicle waywardness, artificial decoration and overloading.

The sensitization exercise, conducted through the Divisional Traffic Unit, was held at the Pujehun Main Lorry Park as part of ongoing efforts by the two institutions to promote road safety, encourage compliance with traffic regulations and reduce road traffic crashes across the district.

Speaking to SKB, the Head of Station for the Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority in Pujehun District, Mr. Alfred Senesie, said the sensitization followed a directive from the National Traffic Coordinator and the SLRSA headquarters to educate drivers, riders and passengers on vehicle waywardness, artificial decoration, unregistered and unlicensed vehicles and motorbikes, overloading and other traffic offences.

During the engagement at the Pujehun Main Lorry Park, Senesie cautioned drivers and riders against unauthorised modifications and artificial decorations on vehicles, particularly practices that could obstruct visibility, interfere with safety features or create unnecessary distractions while driving.

He said the sensitization campaign would also be extended to other parts of the district, including Gbondapi, Sahn Malen, Potoru, Bandajuma, Zimmi and Jendema.

The Divisional Traffic Officer for Pujehun Police Division, Lawrence Sao Tailor, raised concerns over the overloading of vehicles and motorbikes, stressing that carrying passengers or goods beyond the approved capacity increases the risk of accidents and could result in serious injuries or loss of lives.

He advised drivers and riders to ensure that their vehicles and motorbikes are properly maintained and roadworthy before using public roads.

Tailor also urged motorists to respect traffic regulations, avoid reckless driving and riding, and exercise maximum caution when transporting passengers.

Martin Samai, a Vehicle Examiner at the SLRSA in Pujehun District, urged transport operators to regard road safety as a shared responsibility, noting that compliance with traffic laws requires the collective efforts of drivers, riders, passengers and other road users.

The sensitization also provided an opportunity for the authorities to remind the public that traffic regulations are intended to protect lives and property and should not be viewed merely as restrictions on motorists.

The SLRSA and SLP called on drivers and riders to cooperate with law enforcement officers and comply with established safety requirements, warning that motorists who deliberately violate traffic regulations may face enforcement measures in accordance with the law.

The two institutions reaffirmed their commitment to sustained public education and enforcement activities aimed at promoting safer roads for all road users across Sierra Leone.