By Mark DaCosta- Julius Mandella Haniff, a 44-year-old resident of Edinburgh, East Bank Berbice, tragically lost his life following a car accident on the Good Hope Public Road, Mahaica, East Coast Demerara. The unfortunate event unfolded at approximately 03:38 hours, as heavy rainfall rendered the roadway slippery and hazardous.
According to reports, Haniff was behind the wheel of motorcar PAG 9310 when he reportedly lost control, colliding violently with a concrete utility pole situated along the southern parapet of the road. Accompanying him in the vehicle was his 39-year-old wife, Yurajwatie Hussain, who is currently expecting a child. The couple both sustained injuries in the crash, with bystanders rushing to their aid and extracting them from the wreckage. They were subsequently transported to Mahaicony Cottage Hospital for medical assistance.
While the wife received treatment and was eventually discharged, Haniff’s condition deteriorated markedly, and he tragically succumbed to his injuries the following day, around 10:10 hours. As his grieving family grapples with this immense loss, the body of Haniff has been taken to Bailey Funeral Parlour, awaiting a post-mortem examination.
This incident highlights a troubling trend in our nation, where road accidents are alarmingly prevalent. Just in the past year, road traffic fatalities have continued to rise, largely attributable to poor infrastructure, reckless driving, and the pressing need for stricter enforcement of traffic laws. The statistics indicate that too many lives are claimed annually due to such tragedies, a lapse that demands urgent attention from the authorities.
It is no secret that the rainy season exacerbates the already perilous state of our roads, making proper maintenance crucial. Yet, despite repeated calls from the public for better infrastructure and safety measures, a sense of neglect remains pervasive. Moreover, it is crucial to acknowledge that irresponsible driving behaviours, coupled with a lack of awareness regarding road safety, contribute significantly to the prevalence of accidents. Issues such as speeding, driving under the influence, and failure to adhere to traffic regulations are major contributors to the crisis we face.
Under the administration of the current government, it seems as if the promise of improved road safety and infrastructure has yet to materialise. Many citizens are left frustrated and fearful for their safety as they navigate the roads of the country. The recent tragedy involving Haniff serves as a grim reminder that we are in dire need of an effective and comprehensive approach to tackle road safety issues. This needs to be accompanied by robust measures that include better road designs, rigorous driver education initiatives, and enhanced law enforcement.
The loss of Haniff is not just a personal tragedy for his family, friends, and community; it is reflective of a larger issue that afflicts our nation. Until those in power prioritise the fortification of road safety and infrastructure, countless more lives will continue to be placed at risk. The call for immediate action rings clear: we must set aside political differences and unite towards making our roads safer.
