🚘 Cayman Islands Government launches National Road Safety Strategy

The Cayman Islands Government (CIG) has launched a National Road Safety Strategy in response to the increasing danger on the islands' roads. With a rapidly growing population and tens of thousands of cars being imported annually, the existing road network is under significant strain. The strategy, titled 'Safe Roads, Safe Cayman, The Road to Zero', is a cross-government project aiming to end road fatalities and serious injuries by 2038. The initiative will focus on transforming the local road safety culture, improving infrastructure, and enhancing enforcement mechanisms. 🚦

So far this year, nine people have been killed on the roads and police report an average of over 60 collisions every week. The strategy includes driver education, improving pedestrian and cyclist safety, upgrading road infrastructure, and leveraging technology for better enforcement. It also emphasizes the importance of community engagement to create a culture of road safety. The initiatives aim to reduce high-risk behaviour and promote safe driving, encourage shared responsibility among road users, law enforcement, and local organizations, and invest in smart infrastructure and technology to anticipate and prevent road safety challenges. 🚑

Officials are optimistic that targeted campaigns against texting and speeding will enhance safety. "The NRSS is our pledge to the people of the Cayman Islands," said Jay Ebanks, the minister responsible for roads. "Every step we take from now on is a step towards a future where road accidents no longer claim the lives of our residents and visitors." The success of this strategy, according to officials, relies on the collective effort and shared responsibility of the entire community. 🚧