Road Safety - Points License: 'Everything is Ready,' Assures Osman Mahomed
Two days before the launch of the points license system, Minister Osman Mahomed confirmed that everything is ready. This system will come into effect this Friday at midnight.
In preparation for the points license implementation, Minister of Land Transport Osman Mahomed visited the Central Barracks on Wednesday, January 28, specifically at the Traffic Branch. The purpose of this visit was to ensure that the entire technical and operational system is fully functional before the official launch of this new initiative aimed at enhancing road discipline.
This specialized police unit will be at the heart of the system, tasked with monitoring, recording violations, and managing the deduction of points. The minister personally checked the readiness of the computer system and internal procedures.
"The question was simple: is the system ready? And the answer is yes. As we approach the launch scheduled for Friday, January 30, I wanted to ensure everything is working and that we are 100% ready," stated Osman Mahomed.
The minister confirmed that the points license will officially launch this Friday, January 30, with its effective implementation occurring at midnight from Friday to Saturday. "Motorists are now warned. The system will be operational starting Saturday at midnight. More caution on our roads. The road is a privilege, not a right," he emphasized, urging drivers to adopt responsible driving habits.
Deterrent Effect
The points license aims to deter dangerous behaviors on the road by establishing a system of progressive sanctions. Each driver will start with an initial pool of points, which will decrease based on the severity of the offenses committed.
Key offenses include speeding, using a mobile phone while driving, not wearing a seatbelt, ignoring traffic signals, and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The most serious violations will result in significant point deductions, potentially leading to suspension or revocation of the license for repeated offenses.
The system relies on a digital record of violations, allowing for real-time monitoring. Drivers will be informed of their point balance and may be required to undertake corrective measures as stipulated by the regulations.
According to Osman Mahomed, the introduction of the points license marks a decisive step in combating road insecurity. Despite a recorded decline in certain indicators in recent months, the minister believes that recent fatal accidents highlight the need for stricter enforcement.
"We have strengthened the legislation, but it must be enforced rigorously. This system sends a clear message: dangerous behaviors will no longer be tolerated," he stressed. With this new initiative, authorities hope to sustainably change behaviors and significantly reduce the number of accidents on Mauritian roads.