The discontinuation of the Third Lane: A decision of emotion, not logic

Nov 04, 2025 Letters

Dear Editor,

Please allow me a space to vent my concern. The recent decision by the Traffic Department to discontinue the use of the third lane on the East Coast/East Bank Public Road, following the tragic accident involving a young schoolboy, is yet another example of emotional decision-making rather than rational thinking. While the death of any child is deeply saddening and deserves sympathy, policy making must be guided by reason, not reaction.

Every day, thousands of Guyanese who travel along the East Bank experience unbearable traffic congestion. The journey from Farm to Eccles—which should take no more than fifteen minutes—now stretches into an hour or more. This situation has left citizens stranded, frustrated, and consistently late for work. Perhaps the Traffic Department should begin writing apology notes to our employers every morning, since their decisions directly cause nationwide tardiness.

Instead of punishing drivers and commuters, the Traffic Department should focus its efforts on enforcing existing traffic laws. Just this morning, I personally witnessed four motorcyclists riding without helmets. They passed three different sets of police officers, yet none of them were stopped or cautioned. Had one of them been hit down while using the third lane, the blame would have automatically been placed on the driver—despite the motorcyclist’s own lawlessness.

Proper traffic management is not about removing lanes—it’s about ensuring order. Police officers should be stationed at every major intersection to direct vehicles efficiently, and clear signage should be installed to guide drivers. Pedestrians and motorcyclists must also be held accountable for their actions. Drivers should not be punished because others refuse to follow the rules of the road.

The truth is, the Guyana Police Force appears to lack organisation and the ability to make clear, consistent decisions. Their approach to traffic management changes with every incident, without analysis or consultation. This reactive style of policing helps no one—it only creates more confusion and inconvenience for law-abiding citizens. It’s time the Traffic Department steps back, reassesses its priorities, and focuses on real enforcement and education rather than knee-jerk bans. Order on our roads will come from discipline and accountability—not emotion-driven decisions.

Regards,
Rajiv Singh

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