The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Command in Kano State has deployed 1,536 personnel to ensure a hitch-free Eid-el-Kabir celebration in the state.
The State FRSC Sector Commander, Ibrahim Abdullahi, disclosed this while briefing newsmen on Friday in Kano.
Abdullahi stated that the command would do everything to ensure the free flow of traffic at critical road junctions.
He noted that five ambulances, 30 patrol vehicles, one heavy-duty towing truck, and other operational equipment had been deployed on major routes and highways to facilitate smooth operations.
Abdullahi added that the deployed personnel include 1,300 regular marshals and 236 special marshals positioned on major routes.
According to him, special patrol operations to combat road crashes have commenced since June 14, with the main objective being the reduction of road traffic crashes and victims.
“FRSC officers in all the 44 local government areas will be on standby to manage road traffic and ensure prompt removal of obstructions and conduct rescue operations during the period,” he said.
He identified some of the significant reasons for road crashes to include; the use of trailers and trucks to convey human beings, embarking on night trips, fatigue, speed violations, and driving under the influence of alcohol.
Abdullahi added that the FRSC had flagged off an inter-agency joint task force to enforce compliance against using trailers to convey passengers and to mitigate road traffic crashes, fatalities, and injuries resulting from the lawlessness of trailer drivers.
“Since the commencement of the joint task force, they have successfully arrested 222 trailers loaded with 3,169 passengers hanging on top of goods and animals,” he said.
The sector commander warned trailer drivers to desist from conveying human beings, taking night trips, and violating speed limits to avoid road crashes.
He also warned tricycle drivers, especially underage drivers, to stop plying highways to avoid unforeseen circumstances, noting that violators would be prosecuted.
He called on motorists and other road users to obey all traffic rules and regulations to ensure a crash-free and smooth traffic flow on the roads.
The FRSC commander also warned the general motoring public, particularly parents who habitually give vehicles to their wards below the age of 18 during festive seasons, to desist, as there would be sanctions for violators.
He congratulated Muslims and Nigerians generally on the Sallah celebration, urging drivers to exercise caution while on the road.