Government to Introduce Drug Testing for Motorists, GPS Tracking for Public Transport
Debra Matabvu
THE Government is preparing to roll out drug and narcotics testing for motorists, and also using Global Positioning System (GPS) tracking for public service vehicles such as buses, as part of intensified efforts to enforce traffic regulations and curb road carnage.
Under the new system, drivers of public transport vehicles will undergo random roadside tests for alcohol, narcotics and other substances that impair judgement.Simultaneously occurring, buses and commuter omnibuses will be fitted with GPS devices to allow real-time monitoring of routes, speed and driver behavior.
Officials believe the dual approach will deter reckless driving and ensure swift intervention when public transport operators deviate from set safety standards.
The measures form part of a broader multi-pronged road safety strategy being spearheaded by the Ministries of transport and infrastructural Development; and Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage.
Other interventions include enhancing the electronic traffic management system,which uses digital cameras and sensors in city centres to detect traffic violations such as speeding,illegal lane changes and running red lights.
The long-awaited reintroduction of breathalysers will also enable the police to conduct on-the-spot checks to catch drunk drivers, who are among the leading contributors to road crashes.
The stepped-up measures come amid a worrying increase in road traffic accidents, with data from the police showing that during the recent Heroes Day and Defense Forces Day holidays, the number of accidents rose from 149 to 196 compared to the same period last year.The number of fatal accidents increased from eight to 13, while that of deaths rose from 16 to 24.
Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe (TSCZ) managing director Mr Munesu Munodawafa told the Sunday mail that a multi-stakeholder meeting will be held this week to review the latest accident statistics.
“We salute and celebrate that the police have taken the bold decision to reintroduce breathalysers,” he said.
“We will assist and provide some to the ZRP and our budget will support the rollout.
“I know they are working on something on their own, and I am sure at the right time they will make a statement to that affect.
“As the Traffic Safety Council, we have clear instructions from our minister that we need to support that initiative to the extent that our budget can support.
“The third thing that I am almost definite about is that there will be a full deployment of breathalysers.
Zimbabwe Intensifies Road Safety Measures Following Rise in Accidents
Harare, Zimbabwe – Zimbabwean authorities are implementing stricter road safety measures, including random drug and alcohol testing for public service vehicle (PSV) drivers, increased surveillance through electronic traffic management systems and satellite tracking, and intensified joint enforcement operations. These measures come in response to a concerning 8% increase in road traffic accidents and a rise in fatalities between January and September 2024.
According to official statistics, Zimbabwe recorded 39,461 road traffic accidents during the first nine months of 2024, up from 36,628 during the same period in 2023. Fatal accidents increased from 1,130 to 1,169,resulting in 1,532 deaths compared to 1,373 in 2023.
Transport and Infrastructural development Secretary,Mr.Munodawafa, emphasized the need for comprehensive action. “When you look at some of the recklessness, you wonder whether it is just alcohol,” he stated, highlighting concerns about substance abuse among drivers. The new regulations aim to address not only alcohol impairment but also the influence of other substances.
key components of the enhanced road safety strategy include:
Random Driver Testing: Authorities will conduct random drug and alcohol tests on drivers of public service vehicles to ensure they are fit to operate.
Electronic Traffic Management System: The rollout of a fully functional electronic traffic management system is expected by the end of the year.
Satellite Tracking of Buses: Satellite tracking will allow transport regulators to remotely monitor buses, verifying adherence to approved routes, speed limits, and safe driving practices. Alerts will be sent to enforcement officers in cases of violations.
Advanced Monitoring Technology: Patrol vehicles will be equipped with advanced technology to detect traffic offenses.
* Joint Enforcement Operations: Increased collaboration between the Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe (TSCZ), the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), and the vehicle Inspectorate Department (VID) will lead to more frequent and visible enforcement.
The authorities state that these measures are a direct response to the alarming increase in accidents and fatalities, and are intended to considerably improve road safety across the country. the implementation of these technologies and increased enforcement are expected to deter reckless driving and reduce the number of preventable accidents.