By Izunna Okafor, Awka
As part of its ongoing efforts to sustain proper road traffic management across the state, the Anambra State Traffic Management Agency (ARTMA) has issued a stern warning to motorists who are in the habit of of converting strategic exit ramps into illegal parking lots , thereby posing risk to other road users.
The warning, which was contained in a notice signed and made available to newsmen by the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of ARTMA, Engr. Okonkwo Emeka-Konti (Konti Komplete) on Thursday, followed the recent intervention of the agency at the exit ramp leading into the Awka–Onitsha Old Road via the Amawbia Bypass, where the agency said there had been observations of such indiscriminate parking despite repeated public enlightenment on proper road usage.
While describing such parking as dangerous, unlawful and inimical to smooth traffic flow; the ARTMA Boss explained that the ramp was specifically designed to provide motorists with a seamless and free-flowing access into the Awka–Onitsha Old Road, thereby eliminating the need for drivers to drive up to the main junction before negotiating entry. He, however, noted that when obstructed by parked vehicles, the ramp loses its functional purpose and becomes a traffic bottleneck.
According to him, in response to the continued disregard for traffic regulations at the location, ARTMA on Thursday, January 24, took decisive action by installing a clearly visible NO PARKING sign on the ramp as part of new preventive measures to enforce compliance.
The Agency stressed that the exit ramp is strictly a traffic facility and not a parking lot, warning that any driver found violating the directive will face sanctions in line with extant traffic laws. It further advised motorists to take note of the new directive and comply accordingly, emphasizing that enforcement would be firm and uncompromising.
While reaffirming its commitment to ensuring orderliness, safety and efficiency across Anambra roads, ARTMA also generally called on all road users to cooperate by obeying traffic signs and regulations put in place for the collective good and smooth traffic flow.
According to Konti, the Agency would continue to deploy proactive measures to prevent traffic infractions and promote road safety across the state.
“Solution Continues,” he concluded.
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