Motorists who repeatedly violate road traffic regulations could lose their driving licences under a proposed Points Demerit System aimed at strengthening road discipline and reducing accidents across the country.
Police Spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure Development was working towards introducing the system, which will penalise motorists for traffic offences, with persistent offenders facing possible licence withdrawal.
The proposed measures form part of efforts to tighten enforcement of road traffic regulations and address reckless driving, which continues to pose a threat to road safety.
Commissioner Nyathi said motorists issued with traffic offence notices would be required to respond within seven days and subsequently appear in court within a further seven days, failing which warrants of arrest could be issued.
He said police officers would also use communication radios linked to a technical support team to facilitate the tracking of motorists captured committing offences through Electronic Traffic Management System cameras.
The technology is expected to strengthen the monitoring of traffic violations and improve police response in bringing offenders to account.
Meanwhile, the police have warned pedestrians against jaywalking, particularly in Harare’s Central Business District, urging them to use designated pedestrian crossing points to reduce the risk of road accidents.
Commissioner Nyathi also called on the Harare City Council to support efforts to improve pedestrian safety and ensure that appropriate facilities are available for people crossing busy roads.
The proposed demerit system, together with enhanced electronic surveillance and enforcement, is expected to strengthen compliance with traffic regulations and promote responsible road use among motorists and pedestrians.
