With schools across the country due to reopen, the Western Cape Mobility Department is offering free vehicle safety inspections for all scholar transport operators in Cape Town and Beaufort West.
“As schools across the Western Cape prepare to reopen on 15 January 2025, the provincial Mobility Department is once again offering free vehicle safety inspections for all scholar transport operators in Cape Town and Beaufort West. The initiative is part of the department’s ongoing commitment to ensuring safe and reliable transportation for learners,” it said in a statement.
The inspections will take place on 13 and 14 January 2025 at the Gene Louw Traffic Training College in Brackenfell, Cape Town, and at the Beaufort West Vehicle Testing Centre.
“These free inspections will focus on key safety components, including: tyres; brakes; lights; suspension; CV joints; electrical systems; exhaust systems; wipers; [and] licence discs etc,” said the department.
Western Cape Mobility MEC Isaac Sileku said the initiative is a vital step in preventing accidents and breakdowns.
“Ensuring the safety of our children begins with the vehicles that transport them every day. This initiative is a vital step in preventing accidents and breakdowns by addressing potential safety risks before learners return to the classroom. We urge all operators to take advantage of these free checks and join us in prioritising safety on our roads. Let’s work together to build a culture of care and accountability in scholar transport,” said the MEC.
The inspections will take place between 8:30 and 3pm over the course of the two days.
Operators unable to attend the inspections at Gene Louw can contact the Department via the Gene Louw Traffic College, on 021 983 1500 or Jacqueline.Tweedie@westerncape.gov.za and arrangements will be made for an inspector to assess vehicles at a convenient date, time and location.
Scholar transport operators outside of Cape Town and Beaufort West may use the same contact details to enquire about the availability of similar services in their area.
The provincial department added that the initiative is not a full roadworthy test, but a vehicle inspection to test the fitness of vehicles.
“By participating in this free inspection, operators are contributing to safer roads and a safer journey for learners,” it said.
For further inquiries or to schedule an alternative inspection location, operators can please contact the department on 021 983 1500. -SAnews.gov.za
