April 16, (THEWILL) – No fewer than 547 operatives of the the Federal Road Safety Corps, including Special Marshalls have been deployed to man strategic locations within Akwa Ibom state command during the Easter period.

A statement by the state sector commander, Matthew Olonisaye, issued by the public enlightenment officer, Paul James and made available to THEWILL in Uyo, stated that, 11 Patrol Vehicles and 2 Ambulances have been deployed, while arrangement had been made for tow trucks to clear any obstruction during the period.

The statement, however, called on all motorists and other categories of road users to apply caution while using the roads, especially during the Easter Celebration.

“To align with the Corps strategic goal of 15% reduction in road traffic crash fatality, and ensure free-flow of traffic for ease of doing business in the state, 547 operatives including special marshalls have been deployed to man strategic points and locations within the state.

“For effective coverage of all critical areas, 11 Patrol Vehicles and 2 Ambulances were also deployed, while arrangement had been made for tow trucks to clear any obstruction during the period.

“To strategically administer her statutory functions, the Command will, in addition to the regular patrol operations, conduct Mobile court session in conjunction with the judiciary, carry out traffic count to determine vehicular volume in relation to various routes of the state, conduct traffic control at gridlock areas, deploy standby rescue team for rescue operation when the need arises and conduct Breathalyzer test to ascertain blood alcohol concentration of drivers during patrol operation and at the motor parks.

“For avoidance of doubt, critical enforcement target will border on; Speeding and Dangerous Driving/Overtaking Lane indiscipline/Route violation Road Obstruction
Use of phone while driving, Overloading Seatbelt/Child Restraint Use Violation Passenger Manifest Violation, Operating Mechanical Deficient/Rickety Vehicles, Latching and Twist-Locks Violation, Illegal Use of the Spy Number and other Number Plate Violations among others.

“The Command, however, appreciates the efforts of all who contributed towards making the roads safe. Of course, road safety remained a shared responsibility which no single organisation could tackle all alone without support and collaboration of relevant stakeholders”, the statement explained.

It, therefore, urged the people to remain active by always observing the traffic rules and regulations and reporting road and other emergencies promptly to the FRSC toll free line- 122.