Dear Editor,

I am writing to express my frustration with the constant failure of our traffic signals, particularly during power outages. Every time the power grid flickers, major intersections turn into lawless zones, putting motorists and pedestrians at severe risk. When those lights go out, common sense goes with them, not to mention when it rains.

In 2026, it is unacceptable that we lack the basic infrastructure to keep our roads safe. Isn’t it high time the National Works Agency prioritises safety and reliability?

I am sure that all of Jamaica is affected; however, I believe the road users of Kingston and Portmore are experiencing severe challenges.

Here are some suggestions:

1) Battery backups: I fail to understand why we haven’t yet installed uninterruptible power supply (UPS) units at all major intersections to keep lights functional during short power outages.

2) Solar integration: Given our climate, solar-powered signals are a common-sense solution, even as part of a hybrid approach, given the grid’s instability.

3) Accountability: I suggest that it is not beyond us to institute a transparent, real-time system to track and expedite the repair of faulty signals.

I am cognisant that even the best of technological applications will have glitches from time to time. It is, however, unfortunate that we, road users, have not yet attained the level of ‘road maturity’ required for self-regulation when chaos looms. Sadly, we cannot rely on ourselves to exercise discipline and patience at intersections when traffic signals don’t work.

I, therefore, urge the authorities to act with alacrity before the lives of motorists and pedestrians are lost in what could be preventable collisions.

Garfield Henry

Frustrated motorist

tay299h@yahoo.com