Senegal’s annual pilgrimage to the holy city of Touba has once again revealed the dangers faced by motorcyclists, with alarming figures emerging from the latest Magal celebrations.
On August 9, several motorcycle associations and clubs issued a stark warning to authorities, citing the tragic accidents during previous Magal events.
Their press release urged preventive measures, highlighting the hazardous traffic conditions and insufficient road oversight.
These warnings, released days before this year’s Magal on August 13, aimed to reduce risks for pilgrims making the journey.
Despite these efforts, emergency services reported a troubling human toll. Between the start of operations and 6 p.m. on Wednesday, August 13, the fire brigade carried out 395 interventions in and around Touba, assisting 640 people. Road accidents dominated the incidents, with 240 cases recorded.
The statistics paint a grim picture: 575 people were injured and 21 lost their lives. Motorcyclists were disproportionately affected, with 135 accidents involving 165 injuries, including 11 fatalities.
The numbers underscore the vulnerability of two-wheeler users navigating congested, poorly lit roads alongside heavy goods vehicles and private cars.
Motorcycle associations have repeatedly highlighted the absence of targeted prevention campaigns and technical inspections before departure. The recurring tragedies prompt calls for stronger measures, including stricter speed limits for motorcycles, mandatory helmet enforcement, and increased deployment of security personnel at key points along the pilgrimage route.
“Behind each statistic are bereaved families and interrupted life plans,” said a spokesperson from one association. “The road to Touba should never become a test of survival.”
As Senegal prepares for future pilgrimages, the urgent challenge remains: how to balance the devotion of pilgrims with the safety of those who travel on two wheels, ensuring that faith does not come at the cost of human lives.
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