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