FREE INSIDE! Clamping down on reckless driving

2023-12-14 -

Sonia Wahl

With the festive season upon us, traffic is bound to increase, and with an increase of traffic comes the risk of more accidents on the roads. The Eastern Cape (EC) has intensified its efforts to curb drunk driving, reckless driving, misuse of government vehicles and livestock theft with the commencement of the 2023 Festive Season Arrive Alive campaign.

Spearheaded by Transport MEC Xolile Nqatha, the campaign’s launch on 30 November featured comprehensive vehicle inspections at an undisclosed location in the province. A diverse array of vehicles, ranging

from to minibus taxis and buses, underwent scrutiny as part of the initiative’s stringent enforcement measures. The campaign aims to heighten vigilance and adherence to road safety regulations during the festive period, traditionally associated with heightened traffic and potential risks. The operations planned for the festive season will entail a collaborative effort between law enforcement entities, including traffic officers and the South African Police Service. Additionally, rapid response units such as Emergency Medical Services will be strategically deployed along key routes in the province that are known for increased activity during this time.

Since the campaign’s launch there has been a significant number of head-on collisions on the main roads, and this, says spokesperson for the Department of Traffic Unathi Binqose, while these are well-maintained roads. On 3 December, three separate road accidents in nine hours marked the worrying start of the campaign with 10 lives lost to what Binqose says comes down to human behaviour.

“Over the festive season there will be no mercy for drunk drivers; they will be arrested on the spot,” he says. Speeding will also not be tolerated; depending on the speed, offenders face a fine or arrest.

“Over the festive season there will be no mercy for drunk drivers; they will be arrested on the spot.”

DBNLM

DBNLM Mayor Willem Safers recently addressed residents of Graaff-Reinet and road users in a short WhatsApp video. “We are all very excited about the festive season, rushing from our home to our holiday destination. Let’s not take chances and let’s take care of others - be responsible, be quick in our response and drive slowly.” In the video he urges road users and pedestrians to be the law-abiding citizens they know they can be.

The head of Protection Services in the DBNLM district, Dennis Fortuin, says that they will also be clamping down on reckless drivers and will have a zero tolerance with regard to drunk driving and speeding. He urges road users to be patient and abide by the road rules. “Be patient and be vigilant as we approach this festive season. We will be visible on the roads and with the new vehicles the department received, we will curb unlawfulness,” says Fortuin.