In a move aimed at enhancing road safety, the Ministry for Works in and Transport has mandated the impounding of all public service vehicles (PSVs) equipped with tinted windows. Commissioner for transport regulation and road safety, Winston Katushabe, issued this directive during the launch of the 2024 road safety campaign in Kampala, themed “Stay Aware, Stay Alive: Road Safety for All.”
Emphasizing the need for sufficient visibility in PSVs such as taxis, coasters, and buses, Katushabe stressed the importance of easy identification by law enforcement officers. Tinted windows, he argued, could create an impression of involvement in criminal activities, such as smuggling contraband.
Katushabe also warned against obstructing visibility with images of politicians or celebrities and advertisements on windows and number plates. Michael Kananura, the traffic police spokesperson, reiterated that nationwide operations targeting traffic law violators were underway, with no exemptions despite extensive awareness campaigns.
December typically witnesses a surge in traffic-related fatalities and injuries, attributed to heightened excitement, increased travel, speeding, and drunk driving. While daily road deaths usually range from 11 to 12, December often experiences an increase to 14 or more fatalities per day.
Siraje Mutyaba, a representative of public transporters, urged the authorities to prioritize educating individuals about the regulations before enforcing them. Mutyaba emphasized the importance of sensitizing people to the laws regarding tinting or displaying images on PSVs.
In addition, parents were cautioned against allowing children below the age of 12 to occupy the co-driver’s seats, as it exposes them to severe injury or death in case of an accident. Commissioner Katushabe emphasized the need for child restraints and discouraged the dangerous practice of showcasing newly purchased vehicles by placing children in the front seats.
As nationwide operations unfold to ensure safe roads during the festive season, the Ministry for Works and Transport remains committed to fostering a culture of compliance and awareness for road safety.
