Letsatsi Selikoe
THE Roads Directorate has launched a comprehensive awareness campaign aimed at reclaiming road reserves to expand Lesotho’s road network.
The Directorate’s Senior Engineer, Lelecha Lebona, said the campaign’s core mission was to educate citizens about their rights and responsibilities regarding road reserves.
Speaking during a one-day training session organised by the Local Government Department in Thaba Tseka this week, Mr Lebona informed Urban Council Community Councillors about the critical importance of adhering to road preservation laws.
He urged community leaders to actively participate in disseminating this information, fostering a communal sense of ownership and responsibility towards preserving public pathways.
The campaign, which will run until November across various parts of the country, will also highlight the repercussions of violations, ensuring that the public is well-informed about the legal frameworks governing road usage.
Following the awareness sessions, Mr Lebona said the Directorate would initiate enforcement actions where necessary.
“Crucially, this enforcement will not occur in isolation; the Roads Directorate is collaborating with additional stakeholders, including the Lesotho Mounted Police Services, to ensure that actions taken are comprehensive and effective,” Mr Lebona said.
“This partnership signifies a robust approach to maintaining order and lawful usage of road reserves throughout the country.
“By reestablishing adherence to road regulations, the campaign seeks not only to reclaim physical space for roads but also to cultivate a culture of respect for public property among citizens. As the campaign progresses, it remains essential for the public to engage, understand, and support these initiatives.
“The Roads Directorate’s proactive stance serves as a crucial reminder of the collective responsibility we share in preserving our roads for future generations, contributing to a safer and more organized public transport environment in Lesotho.”
Mr Lebona also said the initiative aims to protect vital roadway infrastructure which is a backbone for economic activity, mobility, and safety.
He maintained the significance of understanding the Road Act of 1969 and the more recent Roads Directorate Act 2010.
“These legislative frameworks provide essential guidelines regarding the management and protection of road reserves, which are crucial for ensuring safe and efficient transportation across the nation. Unfortunately, encroachments and unauthorized structures have increasingly threatened the integrity of these roadways, highlighting an urgent need for community awareness and compliance.”
