Algerian lawmaker Bachir Brahmi has written to Interior Minister Sayoud, requesting a temporary suspension of fines imposed on drivers without fire extinguishers in their vehicles. The fines, which amount to 4,000 Algerian dinars, have become a burden for thousands of Algerians who are struggling to obtain the required safety equipment. Brahmi argues that it is unfair to penalize drivers for not having an item that is no longer available in the market.
The shortage of fire extinguishers has become a widespread issue in Algeria, with many stores and dealerships running out of stock. The situation has led to a surge in prices, with some extinguishers selling for as high as 12,000 dinars, three times the amount of the fine. Brahmi's request is based on the principle that citizens should not be penalized for not having access to a required item.
The law requiring drivers to carry a fire extinguisher, along with a warning triangle and reflective vest, was implemented to improve road safety. However, with the shortage of extinguishers, many drivers are being forced to pay the fine or risk being penalized. Brahmi's proposal would suspend the fines until the market is replenished with the required safety equipment.
The issue has become more complicated for owners of vehicles converted to run on GPL, which require a more specialized fire extinguisher. The fine for not having the required extinguisher can be as high as 20,000 dinars, with a risk of imprisonment for up to three days. With hundreds of thousands of vehicles running on GPL in Algeria, the issue has become a pressing concern for many drivers.
The Gendarmerie nationale has intensified checks on vehicles, verifying that drivers have the required safety equipment on board. The authorities have specified the technical characteristics required for each type of vehicle. However, with the shortage of extinguishers, many drivers are being forced to take unnecessary risks or pay hefty fines.
Brahmi's initiative has sparked a debate about the fairness of imposing fines on drivers who are unable to obtain the required safety equipment. While the authorities argue that the equipment is essential for road safety, many drivers are struggling to access it. The outcome of Brahmi's request remains to be seen, but it has highlighted the need for a more nuanced approach to road safety regulations.
The Algerian government has been urged to take steps to address the shortage of fire extinguishers and ensure that drivers have access to the required safety equipment. With the issue showing no signs of abating, it remains to be seen how the authorities will respond to Brahmi's request and what measures they will take to address the shortage.
Key points
- An Algerian lawmaker has requested a temporary suspension of fines for drivers without fire extinguishers, citing a shortage of the safety equipment.
- The shortage of fire extinguishers has led to a surge in prices, with some extinguishers selling for as high as 12,000 dinars.
- The issue has become more complicated for owners of vehicles converted to run on GPL, which require a more specialized fire extinguisher.
