– $393 million in traffic fines issued in 2024, GPF targets speeding and DUI

STRICT enforcement measures by the Traffic Department of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) have resulted in the issuance of 59,987 traffic tickets this year, amounting to fines exceeding $393 million.
Speeding remains a top focus, accounting for 37,381 tickets issued, while 1,789 driving under the influence (DUI) cases were also recorded. To support these efforts, the department is employing plainclothes officers and smart devices to improve detection of reckless road users.

GPF has launched an extensive road safety campaign to improve traffic management and reduce accidents during the festive season.
The initiative, led by traffic chief Senior Superintendent Mahendra Singh, focuses on education, enforcement and improving infrastructure to ensure safer roads across the country.

Speaking at the launch of the Guyana Police Force Christmas Policing Strategy on Thursday at the Police Officers Mess Annexe on Young Street, Eve Leary, Kingston, Georgetown, the Traffic Chief noted that traffic data from 2015 to 2024 reveals persistent challenges in the roads. safety.

While this year has seen a 23 percent reduction in fatal crashes and an overall nine percent drop in crashes, the number of speeding deaths remains alarmingly high.
Speeding alone accounted for 85 fatal crashes in 2024, underscoring the need for stricter enforcement and public education. Vulnerable road users such as motorcyclists, pedestrians and pedal cyclists continue to face significant risks.

Adding that the GPF uses a multi-faceted approach to road safety education, the Traffic chief noted that public awareness campaigns, lectures and defensive driving training sessions are being conducted for drivers, passengers and community members.

To date, he said more than 500 school lectures, 609 driver engagements and 88 community meetings have been organised. A series of Public Service Announcements (PSAs) are broadcast daily, emphasizing the importance of responsible road use.

He further explained that the department has been working with private sector stakeholders, faith-based organizations and the Road Safety Council to amplify its message. Particular attention is paid to promoting defensive driving and the Highway Code, targeting high-risk groups and new drivers.

He said to handle increasing traffic demands, the department is using technology, including smart traffic cameras, real-time CCTV monitoring and body cameras for officers.

In addition, the traffic chief explained that new and emerging housing developments, together with a significant increase in registered vehicles, has necessitated the need for improved traffic engineering.

The GPF, he added, is working with the Ministry of Public Works and local contractors to improve road markings, signage and road markings. Plans include the installation of smart traffic lights and illuminated road markings, which are expected to be completed by mid-2025.

He explained that to cope with the expected influx of shoppers and late night activities on December 24 and 31, additional traffic levels will be deployed in key sectors across the country. The measures include the introduction of double lanes along busy routes, restrictions on lorries during peak hours and designated parking areas to reduce congestion.

Senior Superintendent Singh also emphasized the importance of personal responsibility in road safety. “Speeding is not the solution; slowing down can save lives. Drivers must remain alert, alert and considerate of other road users,” Singh said.

With these combined efforts, GPF aims to make Guyana’s roads safer during the festive season and beyond. The Department remains committed to working with all stakeholders to promote a culture of responsible road use and reduce accidents.