City 5Ks disrupt traffic

THE EDITOR, Sir: I DON’T think any reasonable Jamaican has any reservation in endorsing the principle of people keeping fit and healthy while supporting well-needed charities. Where l think people like myself part company with the organisers of these city runs is that they violate others’ rights.

Last Saturday, between the hours of 6 and 10 p.m., the entire perimeter of New Kingston, including Oxford Road, Old Hope Road, and Lady Musgrave Road, was blocked off from normal vehicular traffic to facilitate the annual Guardian Life 5K Run.

I think the closing off of these roads, especially at prime time Saturday evening when taxpaying motorists are trying to go about their legitimate business, is shameful and unconscionable.

The Guardian Run is one of several the police authorise every year. The organisers of these events must work out a better plan to ensure the least disruption to commuters.

I suggest that the organisers use the downtown Kingston area, from the Craft Market to Breezy Castle, similar to how the Digicel Night Run is done.

Corporate Jamaica must understand that it cannot inconvenience major hubs in the city. These 5K runs can be an excellent elixir for the nation’s health and wellness, but must be done in an orderly and lawful way. WINSTON BARRETT Manor Park