DAR ES SALAAM: If you are a motorist planning to travel during the upcoming holidays, it’s advised to take preventive measures to avoid road accidents.
Stakeholders have issued these recommendations following a Tanzania Police report indicating there were 1,733 road crashes in 2023, up from 1,720 in 2022.
Speaking on the sidelines of the recent launch of Karimjee Group’s Auto Inc, a state-of-the-art automotive care facility in Dar es Salaam, the group’s Chief Marketing Officer, Cobus Van Zyl, noted that some accidents are caused by faults that develop in vehicles, highlighting the importance of regular checkups.
He emphasized that, before starting their journeys, motorists should ensure that tires are in good condition and that wheel balancing has been properly conducted.
“This is a crucial issue as we approach the end-of-year festivities. Taking preventative measures is essential. Ensure that vehicles are well-serviced and inspected before any journey begins,” he insisted.
He added that Karimjee Group, as a key stakeholder in the transport sector, has introduced this service to help curb preventable accidents by providing high-quality products and services.
“We’re here to ensure that our customers receive quality care that’s reliable, efficient, and affordable. We believe the best way to understand the excellence we offer is to experience it,” said Cobus Van Zyl, Karimjee Group’s chief marketing officer.
Auto Inc.’s national director, Amit Singh, added that, for a vehicle to operate properly, a wide range of services must be performed, including advanced computerized diagnostics, major and minor vehicle maintenance, battery checks and replacements, tire services, wheel alignment, wheel balancing, and air conditioning servicing.
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He also highlighted the importance of promptly replacing auto parts such as brakes, shock absorbers, and spark plugs.
“Our highly skilled technicians ensure that every vehicle receives superior care and attention,” he said.
In August this year, Vice-President Dr. Philip Mpango launched Tanzania’s new 3-year Road Safety Plan, which includes the iRAP Methodology and the integration of improved road design and inspection systems with iRAP Certification to enhance the country’s road safety.
The initiative was introduced following a police report showing that among all road crashes last year, a total of 1,647 people lost their lives in 2023, marking a 6.6 percent increase from the 1,545 deaths reported in 2022.
