Kuala lumpur: The Road Transport Department (JPJ) will maximise the use of drones during Ops Hari Raya Aidil Adha (Ops HRAA), which will be carried out from May 24 to 31. JPJ deputy director-general (Planning and Operations) Datuk Jazmanie Shafawi announced that six drones will be deployed at hotspot areas to enhance the detection of various traffic offences.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Jazmanie explained that the drones will be utilised to detect offences such as overtaking on double lines and using emergency lanes on highways. Unlike previous operations, where drones were only used at certain times, this initiative will see drones in operation throughout Ops HRAA. This was revealed during the launch of the operation.
He stated that 288 accident hotspots have been identified, including stretches from Kuala Lipis to Gua Musang, Gua Musang to Kuala Krai, Gerik to Jeli, Hulu Terengganu to Kuala Terengganu, Segamat to Mersing, and the route from the Menora Tunnel to Sungai Perak. Jazmanie noted that the introduction of drones during the last Hari Raya Aidilfitri operation led to the issuance of 5,000 notices under Section 114 of the Road Transport Act 1987 (Act 333).
He further detailed that Ops HRAA will be implemented using a comprehensive and strategic enforcement approach based on the Perception of Being Caught (POBC) concept. This involves increased deployment of enforcement officers at key locations, federal main routes, highways, public transport terminals, and the 288 accident hotspots nationwide, under the slogan 'Drive Carefully, Arrive Safely'.
The JPJ will concentrate on nine primary offences that are major contributors to road accidents. These include speeding, failure to comply with traffic signals, overtaking on double lines, misuse of emergency lanes, not wearing seat belts or helmets, queue-cutting, using mobile phones while driving, overloading, and carrying loads in a dangerous manner.
In addition, Jazmanie stated that there will be enhanced enforcement on commercial vehicles and public transport, focusing on compliance with speed limitation devices (SLD), Safety Audit (JISA), and operator permits. The operations have been fortified through the use of technology and assets, including enforcement action cameras (EAC) and body-worn cameras (BWC), supported by patrols and monitoring by 2,500 JPJ officers and staff for more efficient, transparent, and effective enforcement.
Special operations targeting motorcyclists have also been implemented to improve compliance and reduce accident risks, as motorcyclists are among the most vulnerable road users. Any violations of road laws will be met with strict enforcement action, Jazmanie asserted.
He also urged road users to prioritise safety, adhere to traffic laws, and ensure their vehicles are in proper condition before commencing their journeys.