Road experts slam Windhoek speed humps

Road transport experts have criticised the installation of speed humps on major highways around Windhoek, warning that the measure could increase accidents and congestion rather than improve road safety.

The Roads Authority, in collaboration with the Ministry of Works and Transport, installed speed humps along the B1 Western Bypass, between the Independence Avenue interchange near Katutura Hospital and the Lafrenz interchange to reduce motor vehicle accidents.

Similar measures will also be implemented on a section of the A1 road between Prosperita and the Windhoek Country Club Resort, according to a statement issued by the authority on 4 June.

However, road experts say the ministry should build crossing bridges instead.

Independent Patriots for Change shadow minister of transport Nelson Kalangula has called for the construction of pedestrian bridges, saying speed humps on highways slow the flow of traffic.

He says the move will cause road accidents because the humps are not visible from a distance.

“A highway brings about efficiency in logistical measures, speeds traffic, and decongests as far as that is concerned. Speed humps on a highway beat the purpose of the highway,” he says.

He says there are better ways to reduce accidents on the road.