EASTER HOLIDAY TRAGEDIES GET THE NATION TALKING – WHAT DO THEY SAY?

Numerous accidents that took lives over the Easter holidays have stirred the nation into introspection. Many have used social media to air their views on what is happening. Below we sample a few of the social commentators’ views:

Road transport authorities must wake up and act to avoid more tragedies

As I sit here, grappling with the recent tragedies that have marred this Easter season, I can’t help but feel a deep sense of sorrow and frustration. The accidents involving Botswana buses have shaken us to our core, prompting me to reflect on the factors contributing to these heartbreaking incidents. Amidst discussions about reckless driving and vehicle conditions, one crucial element weighs heavily on my mind—the well-being of the drivers themselves.

As someone who knows the ins and outs of driving, I can’t ignore the plight of my fellow drivers. It’s not just about the state of the roads or the condition of the vehicles; it’s about the people behind the wheel. I can’t help but wonder if these drivers are being pushed to their limits by bus owners demanding relentless schedules and exhausting hours on the road. Take, for instance, the journey from Gaborone to Maun—a grueling nine-hour drive each way, with little time for rest in between. It’s a relentless cycle that leaves little room for recuperation. How can we expect drivers to stay alert and focused when they’re battling fatigue from such demanding schedules?

As I ponder these questions, one thing becomes abundantly clear: the need for drivers to get adequate rest cannot be overstated. With the lives of dozens of passengers hanging in the balance, ensuring that drivers are well-rested isn’t just a matter of convenience—it’s a matter of life and death. But who is looking out for them? Who is ensuring they have the time they need to recharge before hitting the road again?

In the wake of these tragedies, it’s time for action. We can’t afford to turn a blind eye to the struggles faced by bus drivers any longer. It’s time for authorities to step in and enforce regulations that prioritize the safety and well-being of these drivers. From limiting driving hours to mandating rest periods and providing support for mental and physical health, there are steps we can take to make our roads safer for everyone.

Moreover, it’s striking to consider why passenger service buses aren’t operating under similar regulations as the aviation industry. In aviation, there are strict regulations, including having a co-pilot and capping the number of hours both pilots can work to prevent fatigue and ensure safety. Could the speeding and risky driving behaviors observed on the roads be attributed to drivers’ desperation to reach their destinations for much-needed rest?

The analogy to aviation standards underscores the need for a paradigm shift in how we approach road safety, especially concerning public service vehicles. Implementing regulations akin to those in the aviation industry could significantly mitigate the risks associated with driver fatigue and improve overall road safety.

By adopting a proactive approach and aligning regulations with best practices from other industries, we can safeguard the well-being of bus drivers and passengers alike. It’s time to bridge the gap between the road and the sky when it comes to safety standards, ensuring that every journey, whether on land or in the air, prioritizes the lives and well-being of all those involved. [THUTO MCWILLIAMS II]

Bus Operators should take responsibility if they fail to ensure passenger safety.

I think it is high time some of these bus operators are held accountable for corporate manslaughter. It seems like they’re not doing anything to ensure public safety and investigations should be launched to see if bus operators are putting pressure on drivers to make sure they do a number of trips a day as a means of getting better wages. Also to see if mechanics hired to do carry repairs and maintenance on these buses are trained, skilled, qualified and competent and if some the buses involved in accidents had recent mechanical problems and repairs.

I believe that if bus operators are held accountable for corporate manslaughter that’s when we can see a change too in the way drivers drive and we can see more responsibility in public or passenger safety. Business owners aka bus operators like any other business have the duty to provide safety for their customers and where they fail they should be investigated and prosecuted for manslaughter. [VELLY MPOPELANG]

Flashing lights against oncoming cars wont give us protection – make way

Some accidents are avoidable, the problem is we stubbornly insist on our right of way. If an oncoming mad driver overtakes when within sight, reduce speed and try to give way. That only takes away seconds of our time and saves our lives. Sometimes when drivers overtake, they underestimate the speed of oncoming cars, (hoping they are driven normally, kante di a fofa) still, reduce speed to allow them to overtake. Life is more precious than our right of way. Flashing lights won’t give us protection either! Others don’t like being overtaken, they increase speed to make overtaking difficult. A responsible driver would reduce speed to allow the overtaking to be quick. Let us all do our part! [UYAPO NDADI]