In preparation for a safe Eid-el-Kabir celebration, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has announced extensive measures, including the deployment of 743 patrol vehicles, 92 ambulances, and other essential equipment nationwide.
Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed made this disclosure during a press conference in Abuja on Friday, detailing plans for the Eid-el-Kabir special patrol scheduled to commence on June 14, 2024.
“We are deploying over 743 patrol vehicles, 184 administrative vehicles, 92 ambulances, 23 tow trucks, and 144 motorbikes as part of our patrol logistics,” said Mohammed. He emphasized the inclusion of reflective jackets, traffic cones, tyre pressure gauges, extricating machines, and digital breathalyzers to enhance operational efficiency during the festive period.
Mohammed also highlighted the mobilization of 23 help areas and the establishment of 15 traffic control camps dedicated to managing traffic gridlock areas, operating round the clock.
“To ensure effective monitoring and response, a Situation Room has been established at the national headquarters,” Mohammed added, noting the deployment of 28 Road Traffic Crash Clinics and 53 Zebra points along major routes, supported by the fleet of 92 ambulances for swift response to emergencies.
Addressing emerging road safety challenges, Mohammed expressed concern over the use of trailers for passenger transport, night trips, driver fatigue, speeding, and driving under the influence. In response, the FRSC has intensified collaborations with the Nigerian Bar Association and state judiciaries for the prosecution of traffic offenders through mobile court operations.
Furthermore, the FRSC has partnered with the Beer Sectorial Group to deploy breathalyzers at motor parks and highways to curb driving under the influence. Mohammed also noted the success of the Inter-Agency Joint Task Force in apprehending 222 trailers transporting 3,169 passengers, a dangerous practice that poses significant risks to road safety.
The FRSC’s proactive measures aim to mitigate risks and ensure a safer road environment during the festive period, emphasizing the importance of compliance with traffic regulations to prevent accidents and protect lives.
