GIS- 09 April 2025: In a bid to reduce road fatalities and prioritise the safety of citizens in line with the United Nations (UN) Global Road Safety Campaign, a billboard featuring road safety measures was unveiled today in the presence of the Prime Minister, Dr Navinchandra Ramgoolam, at Bagatelle.
The presence of the Prime Minister at the launch testifies Government’s resolute commitment to curb road accidents and maintain public safety.
The UN Special Envoy for Road Safety Mr Jean Todt; the Minister of Land Transport, Mr Mohamed Osman Cassam Mahomed; and other personalities were also in attendance.
Mr Todt is currently on a 24-hour visit to Mauritius at the invitation of the Prime Minister to assess the critical situation of road accidents in Mauritius and develop a comprehensive action plan to address road safety challenges.
In a statement, Mr Todt highlighted that the campaign aims to improve traffic safety and create inclusive, safe, and sustainable streets. As regards Mauritius, around 130 people die in road accidents each year, which he said, is alarming.
He outlined a series of basic measures geared towards ensuring a drop in the number of road fatalities which drivers and road users must adopt. These measures must be adhered to whilst driving: fastening of seat belts, wearing helmets, avoiding the use of mobile phones and no driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs.
The UN Special Envoy stressed the need to conduct more educational awareness campaigns, enforce stringent traffic laws, ensure quality of vehicles and tyres and enhance road infrastructure. The pivotal role of the media in raising awareness and promoting safer road practices was also highlighted by Mr Todt.
As for Minister Mahomed, he expressed confidence that that the recommendations made by Mr Todt will yield positive outcomes. He pledged that Government will initiate tangible steps to reduce accidents and fatalities adding that laws will be amended and policies will be reviewed to encourage road safety best practices.
He called on road users to act responsibly at all times. “The success of the road safety campaign will depend on the collective responsibility of every individual”, he said.
Government Information Service, Prime Minister’s Office, Level 6, New Government Centre, Port Louis, Mauritius. Email: gis@govmu.org Website: https://gis.govmu.org Mobile App: Search Gov
