In anticipation of a surge in traffic during the upcoming New Year period, Morocco's National Road Safety Agency (NARSA) has issued a warning to residents, urging increased caution and vigilance on the country's highways.
In a press release, the agency instructed all road users, from individuals to taxi and bus drivers, as well as shipping truck drivers, to adhere strictly to road safety measures in preparation for the anticipated rush associated with the new year.
Key among the recommended measures is the insistence that all vehicles undergo thorough maintenance checks, ensuring that every system functions optimally before hitting the road. Additionally, the directive urges drivers to meticulously plan their itineraries in advance, emphasizing the importance of securing all luggage properly before embarking on their journeys.
The press release further advised travelers to exercise restraint with speed, diligently adhere to traffic rules and precautions, and enhance their focus and caution, particularly during night drives.
With the approaching new year festivities, a significant increase in traffic volumes is expected on Morocco's roads and highways, as people traverse the country to reunite with family and friends for celebratory gatherings.
NARSA, cognizant of the potential risks associated with heightened road activity, has been actively implementing measures over the past few years to enhance road safety and curtail the frequency of incidents. Notably, the agency initiated the installation of over 550 new-generation speeding radars in 2021, replacing outdated equipment.
The Minister of Transport and Logistics, Mohammed Ben Abdeljalil, disclosed a notable decline in canceled violation notices following the introduction of the new radars. The percentage dropped from 53% in 2015 to 39% in 2021, mirroring statistics observed in some European countries and affirming the efficacy of the upgraded radar systems.
Ben Abdeljalil underscored the significance of these improvements, emphasizing that they contribute to the overall effectiveness of road safety measures. NARSA's data reveals an annual average of 3,600 road accident fatalities and 150,000 injuries, resulting in material losses exceeding MAD 20 billion ($1.95 billion). As Morocco braces for the surge in new year traffic, heightened awareness and adherence to safety protocols become paramount to mitigate potential risks on the nation's roadways.
