The Director of Traffic Police in Lakes State has defended his decision to limit the operating time for motorcycle taxis, popularly known as boda-boda, in Rumbek, saying the order is already saving lives.
There was a public outcry expressed by several callers to Good News Radio lamenting the decision to limit boda-boda operators in Rumbek from 6 AM to 7 PM.Chol Arol Kelueljang said the order was issued out of concern for a hike in boda-boda accidents at night, especially during this month.
He revealed that lives are already being saved, because since the order was issued four days ago no accidents were reported.
He said the order will be in place for three months.
Mr. Arol clarified that the operators of tricycles popularly known as tuk-tuk were not affected by the order and can operate after dusk.
He blamed the hike of accidents on lack of riding skills, explaining that most riders are underage and did not have any special training while others lost their lives due to over speeding.
He lamented lack of facilities to train riders.
He said the Governor promised four motorbikes to train riders but bought only one.
Mr. Arol said that the order to ban underage riders is still in place, underlining that those who break it risk either paying a fine of 1,000 pounds or having the motorbike confiscated.