4,500 JPJ officers to monitor 'death stretches'

The Road Transport Department (JPJ) is expected to station 4,500 officers to monitor 202 'death stretches' throughout the country during the festive season, said its director-general Solah Mat

Hassan.

He said this was because roads, apart from drivers and vehicle, are also a factor that contributes to fatal road accidents.

"We cannot deny that roads also contribute towards accidents but if drivers are careful and follow the speed limits and make sure their vehicles are in good condition, accidents can be reduced," he told reporters after visiting a Transnasional bus depot in Kajang today.

Solah said studies showed that factors that contributed to road accidents were engineering, education and enforcement.

"JPJ officers will conduct patrols and give directions at identified "death stretches" to ensure 'visible enforcement' can be seen by road users. Their presence will increase their awareness and perception of being caught," he said.

Solah said since buses are among the main modes of transport during the 'balik kampung' exodus during festive seasons, the JPJ would focus its attention on ensuring buses used were roadworthy and safe.

He said 79 depots and workshops have been identified for inspection starting Aug 20.

He said during Ops Sikap carried out during last year's Chinese New Year, 629 buses and 1,740 drivers were inspected at their depots and workshops while 1,100 buses are expected to be inspected during this year's Ops Sikap .

"The inspection at the Transnasional depot is the third since the inspection started and 181 buses and 362 drivers were checked," he said.

- Bernama