The Directorate of Road Traffic Services (DRTS) of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has reported the impounding of 9,389 vehicles for various traffic offenses over the past eight months.
This announcement was made by Mr. Kalu Emetu, Head of Public Relations and Enlightenment at DRTS, during an interview with the NAN on Tuesday.
Emetu explained that offending drivers are often directed to the directorate’s model drivers’ institute in Lugbe for corrective training.
This initiative aims to educate those who may not have undergone formal driving instruction, providing them with essential skills for safer driving in the territory.
In addition to paying fines, which serve as a revenue stream for the government, drivers must comply with stipulated conditions before regaining control of their vehicles.
Many offenders are required to undergo psychometric testing, and in more severe cases, they may even need to complete psychoanalysis to assess their fitness to drive.
“Officers of the directorate may withdraw a driver’s license if they are found to pose a danger to other road users,” Emetu stated. He emphasized that these measures are crucial in reducing road carnages in the FCT.
Addressing the issue of rickety vehicles, Emetu revealed that the DRTS has conducted inspections on 19,929 vehicles in its quest to eliminate non-roadworthy vehicles from the streets.
Of those inspected, 9,234 vehicles passed the roadworthiness test, representing approximately 47 percent, while 10,792 vehicles were sent back for further maintenance.
“All these exercises took place between January and August, reflecting a great improvement compared to past efforts,” Emetu noted.
He attributed this progress to a strategic increase in enforcement activities that have encouraged more vehicle owners to utilize the inspection centers, which are conveniently located across the city.
Emetu concluded that ensuring vehicles are roadworthy plays a vital role in reducing the incidence of road crashes, thereby enhancing overall road safety for all users in the FCT.
