You are currently viewing OVER 30 MOTORBIKE RELATED DEATHS RECORDED -RTSA

OVER 30 MOTORBIKE RELATED DEATHS RECORDED -RTSA

ROAD Transport and Safety Agency (RTSA) has reported a rise in the fatality rate associated with motorbike-related accidents with over 30 individuals losing their lives in the second quarter of 2024 as a result of motor riders failing to comply with road usage regulations.

RTSA Public Relations Manager, Mukela Mangolwa said that the Agency has already begun implementing measures to prevent the trend from escalating by addressing the issue of unlicensed motorbike ownership.

Speaking in a telephone interview with ZANIS in Lusaka today, Mr Mangolwa cautioned that motorbikes are not authorized to be used as a means of public transportation for passengers.

“The influx of motorbikes in the country has been of great concern for the Agency, at first it was only in rural areas but now the problem has extended to urban areas,” he said.

He stated that the RTSA has been conducting road safety training in Eastern Province, Copperbelt province and Luapula province for motorists to address potential road hazards that may arise from a lack of awareness.


“We have engaged partners to come on board and some have already started giving out helmets,” he stated.

He also mentioned that motorbikes are only authorized to be used as couriers for goods.

“Most motor riders and cyclists are not registered with the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA),” he observed.

He added that during the Agency’s adherence checks in various parts of the country, many riders and cyclists were unaware that they are required to register with ZRA before starting their business operations.


“We cannot register a motorbike that has not been cleared by the ZRA. ZRA should consider offering these bike owners amnesty for a certain period, after which they can be registered,” he advised.

He said these measures are likely to reduce the risk rate and increase adherence to road traffic regulations.