21-05-2025
Hamad Trauma Centre promotes initiative to improve safety for pedestrians, cyclists
Tribune News Network
Doha
The Hamad Injury Prevention Programme of Hamad Trauma Centre supported the 8th UN Global Road Safety Week, which was held from May 12 to 18.
This year's theme, 'Streets for Life: #MakeWalkingSafe and #MakeCyclingSafe', underscores the critical need to improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists worldwide, as part of a broader effort to reduce road traffic injuries and fatalities.
Every year, more than 1.3 million people worldwide lose their lives in road accidents, with pedestrians and cyclists accounting for a significant proportion of these casualties. In Qatar, as urban development progresses, there is a growing need to prioritise the safety of vulnerable road users, such as pedestrians and cyclists.
Despite a 15 percent decrease in Hamad Trauma Centre (HTC) admissions for serious injuries, the Qatar National Trauma Registry has shown a seven percent and 39 percent increase in the number of pedestrians and cyclists admitted to the HTC from 2023 to 2024. Young children, particularly under the age of 15, and older residents, more than 55 years old, were most severely injured as pedestrians. Bicycle-related traumatic injuries, predominantly affect children, below the age of 15, and working-age males who cycle for work or leisure.
The HIPP at HTC is committed to preventing unnecessary road traffic injuries [RTIs] from affecting any members of the public.
During this UNGRSW, HIPP emphasises the importance of managing speed as a proven means of making our roads safer for all road users, most especially for the most vulnerable road users like pedestrians, cyclists, even children and the elderly.
'We are committed to working together with all our partners to make streets in Qatar safer for all road users, especially the most vulnerable. This year's theme provides an opportunity to reflect on the vital role we can all play in contributing to a safer road environment for pedestrians and cyclists,' said Dr. Rafael Consunji, director of the Hamad Injury Prevention Programme.
'Drivers must not drive while distracted by their mobile phones, always stop for pedestrians on crosswalks and drive under the designated speed limits. Cyclists must make themselves visible [with reflectors or blinking lights], show hand signals when turning and use bike lanes when available. Pedestrians must only cross at designated crossing zones and stay on sidewalks,' Dr. Consunji added.
HIPP reaffirms its commitment to advancing evidence-based road safety policies and fostering a culture of community responsibility around safer mobility. In support of the 8th UN Global Road Safety Week, the programme endorses the campaign theme 'Streets for Life: #MakeWalkingSafe and #MakeCyclingSafe', which highlights the urgent need for safer infrastructure for pedestrians and cyclists in Qatar and around the world.
'Our goal is to align with the global mission of reducing road traffic deaths and injuries by 50 percent by 2030, and this requires sustained, collaborative action,' said Dr. Consunji. 'This year's campaign reinforces the importance of integrating safety into urban planning and policymaking to protect all road users, especially the most vulnerable.'
