Manama: In implementation of the directives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, the Interior Ministry has begun taking legal and legislative measures to toughen penalties related to serious traffic violations, contributing to enhancing public safety and protecting lives and property.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Major Khalid Buqais, Director of Traffic Culture at the General Directorate of Traffic, stated during a television interview on the programme "Shams Al Bahrain" that this step comes in implementation of the vision of the leadership of the Kingdom of Bahrain to develop the legislative system in line with current traffic realities and in step with changes. He indicated that the proposed amendment to the Traffic Law aims to deter violators and strengthen discipline on public roads.
Major Buqais explained that the efforts exerted by the General Directorate of Traffic are not limited to a specific time period but are continuous around the clock throughout the year, pointing to the directorate's pivotal role in maintaining the safety and security of road users.
He noted that the new project includes reviewing the minimum and maximum limits of financial and custodial penalties, alongside introducing supplementary penalties such as licence suspension and vehicle confiscation, especially in cases resulting in serious injuries or deaths, or connected to serious traffic behaviours such as running red lights, reckless driving, and speeding.
Major Buqais also emphasised the importance of continuous awareness, affirming that awareness media messages help to instill self-awareness among individuals, and that traffic culture begins at home and school and complements official efforts. He added that awareness is not a choice but a societal necessity to promote proper traffic behaviour.
He pointed out that the project to equip the General Directorate of Traffic with 500 new cameras represents a qualitative leap in supporting law enforcement measures and achieving a more disciplined traffic system, underlining that the Kingdom of Bahrain is steadily advancing in reinforcing its position among the leading countries in the field of traffic safety.