Egyptian Roads Plagued by Reckless, Drugged Drivers

A shocking revelation by journalist Amr Adib has brought renewed attention to the dangers of drug use among drivers on Egypt’s roads, particularly the regional highways, raising concerns about public safety.

Alarming Statistics

Amr Adib, during his program “Al-Hakaya” on MBC Egypt, reported that tests conducted on 355 transport drivers on a regional road revealed that 48, approximately 15%, were driving under the influence of drugs. He emphasized the potential for catastrophe, stating that even a single impaired driver could cause a major accident.

According to the World Health Organization, road traffic crashes cause approximately 1.19 million preventable deaths each year, with a disproportionate number occurring in low- and middle-income countries (WHO, 2024).

Call for Action

Adeeb expressed dismay that drivers, despite earning considerable profits, would resort to drug use. He described alarming scenarios, such as transport vehicles with plastic pipes obstructing the driver’s view, and insisted these were not exaggerations.

“15% of the sample are striking, an Arab transfer one of the countries that can work a disaster, the stainedness is a bean and a brief and turned into hashish and tramadol.”

Proposed Solutions

Adeeb urged the state to take immediate action to address the widespread recklessness. He proposed establishing a dedicated “Ministry of Traffic” to tackle the issues, arguing that the current traffic management system within the Ministry of Interior is insufficient. “The roads do not need a traffic management in the Ministry of Interior … this is in need of the Ministry of Traffic in order to address the recklessness of the asphalt.”

Stricter Enforcement Needed

Adeeb advocated for stricter controls and harsher penalties for traffic violations. He also suggested utilizing a WhatsApp number for citizens to report violations with video evidence.

Adeeb noted that while the Ministry of Interior has increased traffic patrols and radar surveillance, these measures have not effectively prevented accidents or stopped drivers from driving under the influence.