Egypt excludes streetlights at critical road junctions from power cuts to maintain safety

Ahram Online , Saturday 29 Jun 2024

The Ministry of Transport issued a statement on Thursday outlining its measures to maintain safety on the roads amid reports that reduced street lights amid power cuts have increased accidents, especially on Cairo's vital Ring Road.

crowded road
File photo: A general view of the traffic on a crowded road in Cairo. REUTERS

 

In its statement, the transport ministry clarified that the reduction in street lighting is part of a broader national strategy to conserve energy, adding that exceptions were made for critical junctions such as bridges and city entrances to minimize accidents.

The ministry said road safety measures remain a top priority for the government.

It underscored the importance of using traffic lane delineation, including vehicle headlights, guide signs, and illuminated ground reflectors to mitigate risks and safeguard motorists and pedestrians.

These measures are intended to ensure adequate visibility and guidance for drivers even in areas with reduced street lights, added the transport ministry.

Furthermore, the ministry reiterated its commitment to ongoing maintenance efforts to enhance road safety.

The ministry encouraged citizens to report concerns and complaints to the authorities, promising swift responses by the ministry to address issues.

Citizens are urged to use the hotline (19487), direct phone number (01207255273), and WhatsApp (01207255273) to submit complaints, including pictures and videos documenting road safety violations and concerns.

Crisis management
 

Last week, the government extended the power cuts to three hours per day nationwide amid elevated levels of energy consumption triggered by a gruelling heatwave this summer.

Meanwhile, the government has started implementing an emergency plan to import large quantities of mazut and natural to deal with increased electricity consumption.

The government promised to suspend power cuts from the third week in July to the end of summer.

In July 2023, Egypt implemented a load-shedding programme that saw rolling power cuts of two hours across neighbourhoods nationwide.

Last week, the government said commercial shops would close by 10 pm starting in July, while pharmacies, supermarkets, and restaurants would close by 1 am to conserve electricity.

Short link: