Twenty-four people have lost their lives on Western Cape roads this past long weekend. This was revealed by the Western Cape Mobility Department. Between 13 and 16 December 2024, preliminary statistics reveal a staggering 22 crashes, resulting in 24 fatalities and numerous injuries. Of these, 7 pedestrians tragically lost their lives.
COURTESY: X - @IsaacSilekuMobility MEC, Isaac Sileku, expressed ‘’grave concern’’
over the alarming number of road accidents and fatalities reported.
‘’While enforcement and road safety campaigns launched in late November have led to some improvement in compliance with traffic laws, the loss of lives remains unacceptably high. These tragedies not only leave families heartbroken but also have a lasting social and economic impact on our communities.’’
Sileku emphasised that the government’s efforts alone are
not enough.
“We need every resident in the province to work with us in
creating safer roads… most of these accidents are caused by human behaviour and
could have been easily prevented.”
He says traffic visibility, combined with targeted safety
education for road users and predictive technology, is key to reducing injuries
and fatalities.
The weekend statistics are a sobering reminder for all road users, drivers and pedestrians, to work together for safer roads. Let’s commit to responsible driving, vigilance, and reducing crashes, injuries, and fatalities. Every action counts. 🚗🚶🏼♂️#RoadSafety #DriveResponsibly pic.twitter.com/OzVKfHU6zt
— IsaacSileku (@IsaacSileku) December 17, 2024
Sileku provided tips to all road users to take greater
responsibility:
·
Drivers should adhere to speed limits, avoid
driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and ensure that they and their
passengers wear seatbelts.
·
Pedestrians must use designated crossings and
bridges, if not possible ensure that you use a crossing where you are visible,
particularly at night
· Parents and caregivers must ensure that children are transported safely using appropriate restraints at all times.
‘’As we approach the peak of the festive season, it is
critical for all of us to reflect on how our choices impact others on the road.
By prioritising safety, we can significantly reduce the number of preventable
road deaths,’’ said Isaac Sileku, Western Cape mobility MEC.
“Let us all commit to practicing safer road-use behaviour.
Together, we can create a culture of accountability and care that prioritises
and protects the sanctity of human life. The Western Cape Government will
continue its efforts to safeguard our roads. I urge every citizen to join us in
this mission,” he added.
Done By: Mitchum George
No comments:
Post a Comment