A few weeks ago the Record published a front-page article asking if the JMPD was capable of controlling the lawlessness of taxi-drivers and other motorists on the road.
The conclusion I have reached is a big, resounding “No”. MMC Michael Sun said they are planning to launch a hotline where traffic violations can be reported. Not only will they be inundated with calls from law-abiding motorists, but what is the JMPD going to do with all these cases?
Do they have the manpower to follow-up and track down all the taxi-drivers and other motorists that have absolutely no idea what traffic signals mean? And if they do find them, what is going to happen? Maybe they will be fined, which they won’t pay anyway, maybe just a slap on the wrist, or maybe the officer will be bribed and the lawlessness continue?.
The latest trend I’ve seen is motorists that drive on the wrong side of the road because the queue in front is way too long. You can hoot, swear or improve on your already accurate sign language, they just don’t give a rat’s ass whether they are breaking the law or not.
JMPD officers are still nowhere to be seen at the points where they are needed most. They have many roadblocks and every now and then you seen them trapping some innocent motorists because, heaven forbid, they dared to drive one kilometre faster than they are supposed to.
But doing something about the taxis? Oh hell no. Too much effort.
Despite all efforts to bite my tongue and keep my fingers together, it is becoming more difficult. I understand where road rage comes from.
Am I the only one feeling this way? Let me know about your experiences. Send an email to roelienv@caxton.co.za.
Until next week, take care of one another.
Ciao
