RTSA UNVEILS MODERN PATROL FLEET AND DISPATCH CENTRE TO INTENSIFY 24-HOUR ROAD SAFETY ENFORCEMENT

RTSA UNVEILS MODERN PATROL FLEET AND DISPATCH CENTRE TO INTENSIFY 24-HOUR ROAD SAFETY ENFORCEMENT

The Road Transport and Safety Agency (RTSA) has launched a modern highway patrol fleet and a state-of-the-art Dispatch Centre aimed at strengthening road safety enforcement, improving emergency response, and reducing traffic-related accidents across the country. The development marks a major upgrade in Zambia’s road safety management system, with authorities saying the new infrastructure will enhance real-time monitoring of traffic and improve coordination of enforcement operations nationwide.

Minister of Transport and Logistics Hon. Museba F. Tayali said the investment in digital enforcement systems should be viewed not as a cost, but as a strategic step toward protecting human lives and safeguarding national productivity. He said improved road safety directly contributes to preserving human capital, which remains essential to national development, adding that the initiative will help reduce accidents and ensure citizens continue contributing effectively to the economy.

RTSA Board Chairperson Mr. Richard Chizyuka disclosed that the new patrol fleet consists of 25 vehicles, including 13 high-rise 4x4 Ford Rangers, eight Toyota Hilux vehicles, and four medium SUVs. He said 21 of the vehicles will be deployed along highways, while the remaining four SUVs—equipped with intelligent monitoring and digital surveillance systems—will support enhanced oversight and compliance enforcement. Mr. Chizyuka further revealed that the fleet was procured at a total cost of K34,330,000, describing the investment as a clear demonstration of Government’s commitment to modernising road safety operations.

RTSA Director and Chief Executive Officer Eng. Amon Mweemba said the launch comes at a critical time, as road traffic accidents continue to pose a major challenge in the country.He said the new patrol units will be strategically deployed to identified crash “red zones” along major highways to strengthen visibility and response times.

Eng. Mweemba also noted that the patrols will operate on a 24-hour basis, in line with the revocation of the night travel restriction under Statutory Instrument No. 76 of 2016, as Zambia transitions into a fully open and round-the-clock economy. He said the modern Dispatch Centre will play a key role in coordinating patrols, improving communication between field officers, and ensuring transparency and efficiency in enforcement.

Authorities say the combined rollout of the fleet and Dispatch Centre is expected to significantly improve road discipline, reduce accidents, and enhance overall public safety on Zambia’s roads.