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NARSA Urges Heightened Caution on Moroccan Roads for New Year 2024

NARSA Urges Heightened Caution on Moroccan Roads for New Year 2024
Monday 01 January 2024 - 09:40
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As the New Year approaches, Morocco's National Road Safety Agency (NARSA) issues a strong warning to residents, emphasizing the need for increased caution and vigilance on the country's bustling highways to manage the anticipated surge in traffic.

In a press release exuding urgency, NARSA leaves no aspect untouched, offering comprehensive instructions to all road users, including individuals, taxi and bus drivers, and shipping truck drivers. The message is clear: strict adherence to road safety measures is imperative in preparation for the expected influx of travelers during the New Year festivities.

NARSA's primary recommendation centers on the meticulous maintenance of all vehicles, ensuring every aspect functions optimally before embarking on journeys. Additionally, drivers are urged to plan their itineraries in advance, paying special attention to properly securing luggage before hitting the road.

The press release further advises travelers to exercise restraint regarding speed, faithfully adhere to traffic rules and precautions, and heighten focus and caution, particularly during night drives when visibility is compromised.

As the New Year revelries draw near, an exponential increase in traffic volume is expected on Morocco's vast network of roads and highways. People from all corners of the country will be traversing the land, eager to reunite with loved ones for joyous celebrations.

Acknowledging the potential risks associated with heightened road activity, NARSA has diligently implemented measures over the past few years to enhance road safety and reduce accident frequencies. A notable achievement is the installation of over 550 new-generation speeding radars in 2021, replacing outdated equipment that had outlived its usefulness.

The Minister of Transport and Logistics, Mohammed Ben Abdeljalil, disclosed a remarkable decline in the number of violation notices following the introduction of the upgraded radar systems. The percentage of canceled violation notices dropped from 53% in 2015 to 39% in 2021, aligning Morocco with statistics observed in some European countries. This progress underscores the efficacy of the enhanced radar systems and highlights their vital role in safeguarding lives on the road.

Ben Abdeljalil emphasized the significance of these improvements, stressing their contribution to the overall effectiveness of road safety measures. Shocking statistics from NARSA reveal an average of 3,600 road accident fatalities and 150,000 injuries every year, resulting in a staggering material loss exceeding MAD 20 billion ($1.95 billion). As Morocco braces itself for the surge in New Year traffic, heightened awareness and unwavering adherence to safety protocols become paramount in mitigating potential risks on the nation's roadways.

With NARSA's clarion call for increased caution and the implementation of innovative measures, Morocco aims to ensure that the road to a joyous new year remains safe and free from the tragedies that have marred previous celebrations. It is a collective responsibility that demands the utmost vigilance from all road users as they embark on their journeys with a renewed commitment to safety.


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