REPORTER: OBY ARINZE
The Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, Anambra State Command, has embarked on a sensitization campaign on safe use of highways by motorists and pedestrians in the state.
The exercise, which took place at Regina Caeli Junction, Awka, also featured free drunk-driving tests for commercial drivers operating within the area.
Speaking with journalists during the exercise, the Anambra Sector Commander, Corps Commander Bridget Asekhauno, said the campaign formed part of the Corps’ Corporate Social Responsibility aimed at reducing road traffic crashes in the state by ten percent.
Corps Commander Asekhauno explained that the initiative was also designed to promote safer road usage, especially at Regina Caeli Junction where pedestrians often face difficulties crossing the busy highway.
She noted that a good number of motorists and pedestrians lack proper understanding of the purpose of zebra crossings, stressing the need for continuous public enlightenment.
According to her, drivers were expected to stop at zebra crossings to allow pedestrians right of way, while pedestrians should also cross promptly whenever vehicles slow down.
The Sector Commander further revealed that the command had forwarded a proposal to the Anambra State Government for the construction of a pedestrian bridge at the junction as a permanent solution to the persistent crossing challenges.
She expressed optimism that government intervention would come, considering similar projects already executed in other strategic locations in the state.
On the drunk-driving tests, Corps Commander Asekhauno explained that the monthly exercise was aimed at ensuring drivers were physically, psychologically, and emotionally fit before embarking on journeys.
She reiterated that alcohol consumption and driving remain a dangerous combination that could lead to avoidable accidents.
Some pedestrians at the junction commended the FRSC for the initiative, describing it as timely in view of the frequent accidents recorded in the area.
They, however, called for urgent construction of a pedestrian bridge at the junction, noting that despite the presence of speed breakers, some drivers, especially operators of heavy-duty trucks, still drive recklessly through the area.
