Zambia: Residents of Mpulungu have expressed concern over the rising number of unlicensed motorbike riders. The community has expressed their sincere concern for the safety of their own and their family.
The residents of the Mpulungu community have come forward to the media with their issues. They have shared that the residents are happy that the inclusion of motorbikes has led to ease in movement.
However, at the same time, people are concerned with the way the riders are conducting their businesses. The way that the members of the community are scared about venturing on the roads as the motorists have a blatant disregard for the rules.
Emmanuel Musonda, the community representative has also offered his views on the situation. He also voiced the concerns of the people.
He noted with sadness that most riders do not wear helmets and are overloading people and goods at the same time. He said this is potentially putting the lives of many people in the district in danger.
He spoke briefly to the media on Wednesday where he explained the situation. Musonda observed that most riders have been working without licenses and are not following traffic rules.
He said the increasing number of unlicensed riders is contributing to the increased number of motorbike accidents in the district. Accordingly, He has asked authorities in the district to put measures in place, in order to regulate the motorcycle business.
Further, Mankonga Ward Councillor Chomba Kanjela shared the same concern over the increased number of casualties arising from motorbike accidents.
The Ward Councillor called on authorities to come together and come up with laws that will help regulate motorbike riders.
She appealed to the Zambia Police to start controlling unlicensed riders, as other offices are coming up with measures to help regulate the business.
Kanjela noted that though the motorbike business has empowered some youths who were roaming around the district, the cause should not be at the expense of peoples lives.