As the festive season draws to a close and visitors embark on their journeys home after the holidays, the Western Cape Government has urged for vigilance and patience on the roads.
“With increased travel expected over the coming days, all road users, particularly public transport providers and pedestrians, are urged to be vigilant, patient, and must strictly adhere to road rules,” Western Cape Mobility MEC, Isaac Sileku, said in a statement on Friday.
Sileku emphasised that by taking personal responsibility, respecting speed limits, and remaining courteous toward others on the road, every traveller can contribute to safer journeys for all.
The MEC said the department’s provincial traffic officers and law enforcement partners work tirelessly throughout the year, but they work especially hard at this time of year to ensure safer roads.
“Between 30 December 2024 and 5 January 2025, over 29 000 vehicles were stopped across the province at roadblocks, vehicle checkpoints, and speed control operations. During this time, 191 speeding offences were recorded, 25 vehicles were impounded and117 arrests were made, 83 of which were for driving under the influence of alcohol,” Sileku said.
The MEC also appealed to road users to take collective responsibility to ensure safety.
"No matter how eager you are to get home, be even more committed to demonstrating patience and good driver behaviour. Our provincial traffic teams are on the roads 24/7 to ensure your safety, but real change begins with each of us.
“Nobody plans an accident. Let us make these last few days of the festive season just as memorable as the start by ensuring we arrive safely home," Sileku said.
The provincial government has further warned road users not to drink and drive, manage fatigue on long trips, and perform safety checks on their vehicles before departure. – SAnews.gov.za
