Dear Editor,

News recently of another motorist forfeiting his life whilst driving on the 301-year-old Flat Bridge in St Catherine by plunging into the Rio Cobre prompted me to write to express my deep concern regarding the safety of the bridge as a vital route for thousands of commuters, including visiting tourists to the island.

Reports of deaths, accidents, and near-misses on the bridge over many years highlight the urgent need for swift improvements to ensure the future safety of all users of the roadway.

I suggest that sturdy guard rails be installed urgently along the entire bridge, especially on the bends and clearly vulnerable spots to prevent vehicles veering off into the river. This structural improvement should be followed by a vigorous and effective public awareness campaign designed to educate motorised users of the bridge on the life-saving value of safe driving practices whilst in the vicinity of the Rio Cobre. This, undoubtedly, would promote a deeper sense of caution, especially in adverse weather conditions and at night. Electronic messaging boards strategically placed along the roadway can also go a long way in helping to achieve this objective.

Added to this, clearer and prominent signs indicating speed limits, curve warnings, and the potential for sharp turns would alert drivers to take necessary precautions in advance. This initiative can be coupled with increased enforcement of speed limits, especially during rush hours, and regular traffic enforcement patrols to ensure drivers adhere to the recommended speed, which is crucial for navigating certain sections of the bridge.

The gorge and Flat Bridge could also benefit tremendously from more lighting at night, essential for visibility. Lives could be saved in this vicinity if bright, energy-efficient street lights were installed to significantly reduce accidents caused by poor visibility, particularly during rainy conditions.

We should not lose one more life on Flat Bridge and in its environs on account of negligence in improving the safety of the landmark. It is hoped that the authorities will act swiftly in considering for implementation these suggestions to prevent further accidents and save lives.

Everton Pryce

St Andrew