Popular Democratic Movement (PDM) Member of Parliament Nico Smit has called for stricter penalties on farm owners who fail to maintain adequate fencing along public roads.
Smit said poorly maintained fences have resulted in numerous accidents, often caused by roaming farm animals.
“There must be a fine for commercial and communal farmers who fail to maintain a proper fence to keep animals away from the roads. The farmer must be held liable for the damage caused to the vehicles and for the lives lost. Therefore, a fine between N$80,000 and N$100,000 must be indicated as such in this Bill,” Smit said during his contribution on the Roads Bill.
He said farmers must be held liable for the damage caused to vehicles and for the lives lost.
Smit also touched on other critical aspects of the Roads Bill, including the need for clarity regarding the establishment of road boards.
“This Bill needs a series of adjustments that will solve serious issues such as the establishment of road boards, construction works on roads at night, accidents caused by animals of commercial and communal farmers, and issues of ‘just’ compensation. I therefore call for a review of this Bill,” Smit noted.
He proposed that the functions of these boards might be better handled by the Roads Authority rather than creating new, potentially ceremonial bodies.
Smit further highlighted the importance of “just compensation” for landowners whose properties are affected by road construction.
“This Bill must take into consideration the aspect of ‘just compensation’ because the owners of land where roads are to be constructed deserve fair compensation,” he stressed.
In addition to calling for changes in how road construction is managed, Smit advocated for banning construction work on roads during night hours.
He argued that such activities increase the risk of accidents, especially for drivers who may not be aware of ongoing roadwork.
“Construction works on roads at night must be banned as many road users normally get involved in car accidents caused by construction works,” Smit said.
Smit further urged the government to reconsider several provisions in the Roads Bill, ensuring that it addresses issues such as road safety and the compensation of landowners.
The Roads Bill remains under consideration as MPs debate potential amendments aimed at improving road safety and ensuring fair compensation for those affected by infrastructure projects.
