Speed humps on highways: When quick fixes create bigger problems

The recent installation of speed humps along sections of Windhoek’s B1 Western Bypass and A1 highway has once again exposed an unfortunate tendency within government decision-making: responding to tragedies with knee-jerk solutions rather than evidence-based interventions.

No one disputes that pedestrian fatalities on these roads are a serious concern. Every life lost is one too many, and authorities have a duty to act decisively to prevent further deaths. However, acting decisively is not the same as acting wisely.

The speed humps introduced by the Ministry of Works and Transport and implemented by the Roads Authority appear to be a reaction to recent pedestrian deaths on what is, by design, a high-speed road network. While the intention to save lives is commendable, the method chosen raises serious questions about planning, consultation and the understanding of modern road safety principles.

Almost immediately after the humps became operational, motorists reported severe traffic congestion and several rear-end collisions. One such incident reportedly involved a black SUV crashing into the back of a sedan shortly after the measures came into effect. Instead of reducing danger, the intervention appears to have introduced a new set of hazards.