Certain speed traps are unacceptable

Sir,

There has been much discussion about motorists being ‘trapped’ by the new traffic light and camera systems. I offer my experience as further unfairness.

Along the Larnaca-Dhekelia road, a general 50km/h zone, there is a stretch after a roundabout where the limit changes from 50 to 65km/h as shown by the large, round, circular advisory signs. It does not last long and reverts to 50, quickly. The area is shown to be camera monitored.

Many motorists have been reported for exceeding 50km/h in the short 65km/h ‘trap’ zone. 

I was trapped doing 61km/h in the 65 zone, TWICE within four minutes, where, it is claimed that the limit is 50.

TWO fines for complying comfortably within 65km/h.

Whatever argument the Traffic Department produce, even if it was a 50 zone, TWO fines within the same stretch, where it could be seen that erroneous but careful driving is involved is indeed a ‘stretch’!

The 65km/h advisory sign should be removed.

Driving technique should be taken into account in order to identify minor lack of awareness as opposed to deliberate non-compliance with law.

Of course the government derives huge amounts of revenue, used for other purposes, from trapping motorists. Therefore, nothing will be done. Shameful and very disappointing, nonetheless.

Gordon MacFarlaine, Oroklini