MITIGATING RISKS
LETTERS: The government's initiative to address road fatalities in school zones is a welcome step.
With 67 lives lost annually, the decision to reduce the speed limit from 40kph to 30kph and mandating the installation of speed bumps is commendable.
Coupled with plans to collaborate with schools and the private sector to improve public transportation, this reflects a proactive stance on safety.
However, we must be mindful of other issues, too. Speed limit signboards are often ignored, and many parents, with a legitimate concern for safety, choose to drive their children to school.
Though well-intentioned, this results in a host of unintended consequences, including air pollution and traffic congestion.
Moreover, more cars on the road increases the risk of accidents, endangering children and other road users.
Children who are driven to school miss out on developing pedestrian skills, impeding their development of independence and self-reliance. The lack of physical activity might also affect their health and development.
Therefore, several actions are necessary.
As a short-term measure, enhancing pedestrian safety, through improved visibility with raised crosswalks, flashing beacons and bollards, is crucial.
Slowing down traffic with speed bumps, narrower roads and stricter enforcement of speed limits can mitigate immediate risks.
Increasing the presence of traffic wardens and launching road safety campaigns will further support these efforts.
Expanding school bus services can also reduce dependency on personal transport. Optimising school bus routes to improve efficiency and coverage will also play a key role.
For long-term improvements, prioritising active transport by creating dedicated bicycle lanes, wider sidewalks and sheltered walkways are essential.
Creating safer communities with buffer zones around schools is necessary.
Engaging the community through school road safety committees and involving parents in safety initiatives will foster a collaborative approach.
Strengthening traffic regulations, reviewing laws and allocating funds for safety improvements will ensure that these measures are effective and sustained.
While the new speed limit laws and infrastructure upgrades are important initial steps, a more long-term and comprehensive approach is necessary.
By investing in infrastructure improvements, and engaging in long-term planning, we can make meaningful progress towards creating safer and healthier school environments for our children.
BOO JIA CHER
Kuala Lumpur
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times