These figures are highly distressing and disastrous for any society that is striving to continue leading normal progress. The magnitude of human loss has reached an alarming level, and this cannot be calculated in terms of money. The material losses amounted to a devastating national waste.

This outcome of traffic accidents has not originated in a single day. These terrific figures are a result of traffic chaos piling up over the past two decades. This has been coupled with frequent violations of traffic laws by a large number of Saudi youths as well as foreigners who work as drivers of families, trucks and taxi companies. All of this has resulted in turning the roads into killing fields.

It is unfortunate that most of us in the Kingdom think that this scenario is a normal outcome of population growth and the availability of wealth that enables youngsters and foreign workers to buy vehicles. But we forget that such figures are really detrimental to society.

As for 6,000 deaths and 40,000 injuries, they point to a disabled society. The material losses amounting to over SR24 billion showed a plundering of wealth that otherwise could have been usefully invested.

Therefore it is imperative, with a firm determination, on the authorities to work out a comprehensive national strategy that is not restricted to security and traffic authorities but rather something that encompasses all segments of society. This should be started in the family and schools, and then from the media to the bodies that enact stringent laws and regulations as part of creating proper traffic awareness and a culture of respect for the rule of law.

It is totally unacceptable to underestimate such a disaster. Instead the issue should be given much prominence and should be treated seriously, as this is not simply the loss of life and property alone. It also produces a devastating negative impact on the conscience of society, which is accustomed to not respecting the rule of law.

The general disorder, as well as financial and administrative corruption, is a mirror of the traffic chaos that we witness all day and night in our large and small cities. Those who do not respect traffic regulations do not respect any other rights or regulations.

If we look at the people in other parts of the world, we can see that they are diligent in respecting traffic regulations. Take Dubai for example. This major business hub in the region cannot be compared with any cities in the Kingdom in terms of its population, size and position.

We can see the Bangladeshi taxi driver in Dubai in full elegance and style. His taxi always maintains its beauty and neatness. Needless to say, he respects the traffic rules without any failure. But what is the state of affairs in the Kingdom?

These are the outcome of man-made actions. This means that a man, through his behavior and respect of law, can create either a healthy or unhealthy environment. Hence, I call on all government and private agencies as well as individuals and families to consider seriously tackling the traffic chaos on our roads.

Perhaps we can effect change and put an end to this frightening situation involving colossal losses of human life and property within the coming five years.

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