WC Mobility to focus on speeding, seatbelt compliance, inter alia, this festive season

Speeding, seatbelt compliance, and overloading, are some of the key focus areas traffic officials in the Western Cape will be targeting this festive season.

COURTESY: Western Cape Mobility Department

The Western Cape’s Mobility Department officially launched its 2024 Festive Season Road Safety Campaign at the Moorreesburg Weighbridge on Friday, signaling the start of heightened road safety efforts during the holiday season. Also present at the launch were representatives from, the South African Police Service (SAPS), Golden Arrow Bus Services, West Coast District Disaster Management, Emergency Medical Services, and SANTACO. Stakeholders emphasised their commitment to a collaborative approach to making roads safer.

‘’With thousands of residents and visitors expected to travel across the province, the Department has unveiled a comprehensive plan to promote responsible behaviour on our roads during this busy period,’’ said Isaac Sileku, Western Cape Mobility MEC.

According to Sileku, the campaign underscores that road safety is a shared responsibility, with every road user playing a crucial role. One hundred and sixty-four people were killed on Western Cape roads during the 2023 festive period. This is an increase of 33 fatalities compared to the same period as 2022

“Together with our partners, we are proud to launch this festive season road safety plan. By resting regularly, not speeding, ensuring your vehicles are roadworthy, and showing respect towards each other, we can reduce incidents on our roads.”

The Western Cape Mobility Department said daily 24/7 traffic operations across the province will be conducted . Key focus areas for enforcement include targeting driving under the influence, speeding, seatbelt compliance, overloading, fatigue management, visibility and distracted driving, jaywalking and pedestrian safety.

Safety first ! I launched the Western Cape’s Festive Season Road Safety Campaign at the N7 Moorreesburg Weighbridge. Together, we’re driving towards safer roads and a responsible festive season. 🎄🚔👮🏼‍♀️🛣️#RoadSafety #FestiveSeason #ResponsibleDriving #ForYou pic.twitter.com/5xuIz9g244

— IsaacSileku (@IsaacSileku) November 22, 2024

A total of 594 provincial traffic officers will be deployed to monitor roads and enforce these measures, supported by 296 patrol vehicles and 6 motorcycles to ensure a consistent presence on key provincial routes.

The Western Cape Mobility Department also issued the following advice for all road users:

·        Conduct a thorough vehicle check before embarking on a journey.

·        Adhere to all road rules, including speed limits and seatbelt use.

·        Take regular breaks during long trips to avoid fatigue.

·        Refrain from driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

·        Be mindful of pedestrians and other road users.

“Together, we can make a difference this festive season. By taking personal responsibility and prioritising safety, we can ensure everyone arrives safely at their destination,’’ said Isaac Sileku, Western Cape Mobility MEC.

 

Done by: Mitchum George