Fathi Halawani Okaz newspaper Just see how Palestine Road has become a major thoroughfare that links the eastern part of Jeddah with its western side. And not to mention other roads that have been developed lately, such as the Prince Majed (Saba'een) Street, King Fahd (Sitteen Street), Madinah Road and Al-Andalus Street, easing traffic flow across the length and breadth of the city. Thanks to Allah, this means the state has spared no effort in carrying out road projects including bridges and underpasses for the citizens' comfort. Yes, I can see that, but motorists are driving on these roads like rockets. This is our daily trial in the city by some reckless motorists. The moment they find the road has light traffic, they drive at full speed as if they have never seen or heard about fatal accidents that are reported in our newspapers every day. These accidents claim many lives and all because of speeding by reckless motorists. But what can one say other than pray to Allah to give them guidance? Motorists ought to realize that the state has built these roads for their comfort and not for them to end their lives by getting involved in accidents. Moreover, these people jeopardize the lives and properties of other road users. For this reason, I advise them to drive slowly and to be careful when driving on expressways. Our motorists should stick to this motto in their lives: “Drive slowly, arrive safely. Drive fast and you will regret.” All we can say is to pray to Allah to give them guidance. Slow down, it appears there is an accident ahead. O Allah! Cars are parked on the roadside and so many people have gathered and are watching. There is an ambulance, too. I ask a man in the crowd: “What has happened, brother?” One person has died, is the reply. He was run over by a car while crossing the street. This is what I have always feared. Accidents will increase so long as there are no pedestrian bridges on these new streets, which don't have traffic lights. For this reason, I call on the concerned officials and decision-makers to approve the construction of more pedestrian bridges on such roads so people, including students, can cross them safely with peace of mind. In this way, we can protect their valuable lives from reckless motorists whose only concern is to drive at full speed for no plausible reason. Live long and you will see a lot!
