Online Reporter
Amos Mpofu, Online Reporter
LAST year, 77 pedestrians died and 143 were injured in Bulawayo after being hit by vehicles while wearing earphones, police have revealed.
A total of 220 pedestrians were affected citywide, highlighting the growing danger of distracted walking.
In response, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) in Bulawayo launched a campaign on Friday at the corner of Herbert Chitepo Street and Leopold Takawira Avenue targeting pedestrians who cross roads while wearing earphones or using their phones.
Authorities say at least three road traffic accidents linked to negligent pedestrians occur daily in the city.
Addressing hundreds of pedestrians caught during the campaign, Bulawayo Provincial Police Spokesperson Inspector Nomalanga Msebele urged the public to take responsibility for their own safety.
“Last year alone, out of 212 accidents in Bulawayo involving pedestrians crossing the road while putting on earphones and using cellphones, 77 died and 143 injured,” said Inspector Msebele.
“We are today educating the public, especially pedestrians, to be cautious and not to be negligent whilst crossing the roads simply because of phones and earphones,” she said.
Inspector Msebele added that the problem has become increasingly prevalent in the age of mobile phones, making it essential for pedestrians to be aware of the risks associated with distracted walking.
