Chinedum Treasure
Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Anambra on Thursday said 24 lives were lost in four trailer-related crashes in three months in the state.
Sector Commander, Mrs Joyce Alexander made the disclosure during a town hall meeting on Tanker and Trailer Safety Challenges in the state.
She said several persons were injured in the crashes she described as avoidable crashes and casualties.
She said the town was to assist the Command map out strategies on ways to stop the incessant crashes and explosions to save lives and property.
“We have recorded four trailer-related crashes in three months which claimed 24 lives and many injured. These are avoidable crashes and casualties.
“The Command has put measures in place to ensure compliance to installation of speed limiting devices and other safety requirements in haulage vehicles,” she said.
While calling for the training and re-training of tanker drivers on road safety rules, Alexander urged tanker operators to prioritise the maintenance of their vehicles to check brake failures, worn out tyres, manhole defects and inadequate latching of the container.
“We recommend valid vehicle registration and display, valid drivers license class and stiffer sanctions on operators whose tankers are involved in crashes through legislation.
“Also, the establishment of rest areas in the state will prevent fatigue and we appeal to the police to free traffic checkpoints at approach of articulated vehicles,” she said.
Reacting, Divisional Police Officer of B-Division, Awka, SCP Uche Noah said that checkpoints were necessary due to security concerns.
He also urged drivers to refrain from driving under the influence of alcohol or other illicit substances.
Some m transport members who spoke during the event listed key challenges affecting tanker drivers to include poverty, impatience, excessive police checkpoints, economic hardship among others.
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