Festive traffic control launch

KWAZULU- NATAL drivers are urged to exercise caution on the roads going into the festive season.

Traffic to the province is expected to increase this week as schools across the country close on Wednesday.

Last December’s death toll figures are a reminder of the risks on the road with KZN having topped the list after the Eastern Cape. A total of 1 755 people died on South Africa’s roads with KZN making up 17 percent (almost 300).

Simon Zwane, spokesman for the Road Traffic Management Cooperation, said officials would be on high alert. Plans to monitor all major highways and accident hot spots were in place.

“High traffic volume routes in and out of KZN and major holiday spots will be monitored. There will extra visibility of road traffic officials on the road and a “no tolerance” attitude. We will also clamp down on officials accepting bribes, so those caught disobeying the rules of the road should not think they will get away by paying a bribe,” said Zwane.

He urged holidaymakers to plan their trips, make regular stops, obey the rules of the road and not drive under the influence of alcohol.

“Most importantly, make sure you are buckled up at all times, and that children are also buckled in,” Zwane said.

The KZN department of transport said they had a plan of action which had already been implemented to help manage the matric rage festivities.

“We will be coming down hard on those who disobey the rules of the road this festive season,” said Ncalane.

“A number of operations including multi-disciplinary road blocks will begin as of next week. We have formed partnerships with the public transport sector as well, to ensure that our roads are safer during this period.

“The MEC will be engaging with motorists in all corners of the province. We have also identified our usual hot spots and attention will be focused on these areas.”

Ncalane said the National Executive Committee would launch a nationwide festive season plan next week. “Motorists need to be warned that we cannot lose more people on our roads this December. Especially to those who choose to drink alcohol and drive – be warned, we are working with prosecution authorities to ensure that harsher fines are imposed upon those who are caught.”

The eThekwini Municipality is set to launch its festive season plan on Wednesday at the King Zwelithini stadium in uMlazi.