Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, said it had deployed 419 personnel, patrol vehicles and ambulances across Abia State ahead of the Muslim Eid- el-Kabir holiday.
FRSC Sector Commander in charge of Abia State, Mr. Paul Ugwu, who disclosed this while addressing newsmen in Umuahia, warned motorists against over speeding and route violation.
Ugwu who said that the Corps began a special patrol on July 6, to ensure a free flow of traffic during the Sallah period, said they had also embarked on aggressive sensitisation of the motoring public.
The FRSC boss who noted that the period usually records high volume of traffic flow that could lead to traffic gridlock, congestion or road crashes, said the corps was prepared to tackle any challenge that could crop up.
He identified major objectives of the special patrol which would end on July 13, as reduction of road traffic crashes, and prompt rescue of accident victims.
The Sector Commander said the Corps was in touch with private tow truck operators as well as major construction companies in the state to complement the efforts of the Corps in case of emergency.
Ugwu also said that their target included to ensure visibility on highways, and to get feedback from motorists passing through major corridors in the state.
He said ambulances had been mobilised and stationed at critical corridors in the state, adding that one ambulance has been permanently stationed at Abia Tower Express junction Umuahia with a rescue team day and night for prompt response in the event of any emergency.
The FRSC boss said the Corps would target offenses like speed violation, dangerous driving, over loading, use of phone while driving, refusal to fix speed limit device, driving without spare tyre, use of expired tyres among other offences.
He advised motorists to obey all traffic regulations as any violator might be subjected to a mobile court.
Ugwu appealed to motorists to to be mindful of their speeds especially now that the rainy season is at its peak.
He also appealed to commercial drivers to ensure they have passengers’ manifest for easy identification of victims during road crashes.
