Bakyt Baketaev, a well-known political scientist, expressed dissatisfaction with the state of lighting on domestic roads. With extensive driving experience, he claims that uncontrolled lighting and loud horns turn nighttime driving into a real disaster. In his opinion, such conditions can no longer be tolerated.
Baketaev shares his experience, stating: "I am a driver with forty years of experience. Sixty years behind the wheel is not just a number. It’s thousands of kilometers at night, it’s responsibility for passengers and other road users. I cannot remain silent because the situation requires immediate intervention."
He emphasizes that many cars are equipped with bright, homemade, or uncertified headlights that shine as if they are airport spotlights. "Some drivers even take pride in this. But what happens to the oncoming driver who may be blinded for a few seconds? This can lead to catastrophe. I try to get their attention, flashing my headlights, honking, but it’s all in vain. It’s selfishness: 'I’m fine, the rest doesn’t matter.' This is not freedom; it’s irresponsibility," he adds.
The expert raises questions about how the country can be considered tourist-friendly when chaos reigns on the roads. "We talk about development, about building infrastructure, but why is there such anarchy on the roads? Don’t we have standards?"
He points out the existing international norms and technical regulations that govern the brightness and angle of headlights. "Headlights should be adjusted according to factory parameters, but instead, we see homemade systems that blind drivers," noted Baketaev.
The political scientist also addresses the issue of noise from vehicles. "Loud horns from trucks and buses scare people. Modified mufflers create noise that disturbs everyone around. This causes psychological harm. I notice that some of these people who behave aggressively on the road observe religious rituals. But is faith only about rituals? Respect for others starts with simple things – not blinding them, not putting them at risk," he adds.
Critically assessing the control from authorities, Baketaev questions: "Where is the oversight? Why has vehicle inspection become a formality? Why aren’t lawmakers addressing this issue? Perhaps they don’t face this reality since they drive official cars?"
As a solution to the problem, Baketaev proposes a series of strict measures. "It is necessary to implement mandatory headlight checks during vehicle inspections, including measuring brightness and proper adjustment. Ban the installation of uncertified lighting devices, impose hefty fines, confiscate illegal equipment, and organize raids to control loud horns," he suggests.
In conclusion, he emphasizes the importance of mutual respect on the roads. "Real reform is evident in practice. When drivers do not blind each other at night, it will create safer conditions on the roads. We must strive for a modern society where respect and understanding become the foundation of driving culture. If we want to become a civilized state, we need to start with the simple act of not blinding each other," summarizes Bakyt Baketaev.
