The Northern Cape Department of Transport, Safety and Liaison is intensifying its 365 days of road safety programmes with a robust action plan in the John Taolo Gaetsewe Region following an increase in fatal accidents reported in the area.
The area’s increase in mining operations has seen an escalation in vehicle flow and population. Congestion has thus increased on the N14 (Kuruman-Kathu) and R385 respectively (Olifantshoek Cross-Postmansburg-Danielskuil Cross). Ultimately the R31 from Danielskuil cross-Kimberley is the carrier of most, if not all traffic from the region.
A series of gruesome and fatal crashes have been reported from these roads since January this year. One of these fatal crashes in the area has also claimed the life of one of our own traffic officers in the line of duty.
An analyses from the pattern of these major incidents indicate that, they occur late night or early morning hours, especially on weekends. Alcohol usage, excessive speeding, unfit vehicles and drivers and non-compliance with conditions of permit/licence are some critical transgressions that contribute highly towards the carnages.
The next coming weeks seek to continue dealing with transgressors and cautioning road users to obey the rules of the road in a bid to keep safe on the roads, save their own lives and those of others.
In the 365 days of road safety operations we will screen drivers for alcohol, driving licences and licence discs/number plates for authenticity and vehicles for roadworthiness amongst others each week. Arrests will also take place for any contravention of the law where applicable while speeding and reckless driving will not be tolerated.
The recent operation in Kathu saw 449 vehicles stopped and checked, 193 drivers screened for alcohol, 11 arrests for alleged drunken driving and one vehicle discontinued in a two day operation.
This operation also saw a police officer who was not on duty being arrested after traffic officers gave chase and charged with 7 counts which included drunken driving and refusal of arrest.
As the Department of Transport, Safety and Liaison we are saying we are almost entering the heart of the festive season and there is a build-up of excitement and operations will continue be intensified. The operations will not only be in John Taolo Gaetsewe Region but will be across the province.
Our traffic officials remain committed and motivated to keep the roads safe and will not grow weary. We appeal to the community to work hand in glove with our officials to ensure that the roads are kept safe and road users not only feel safe but are safe.
Enquiries:
Ms Keitumetse Moticoe, Communication officer
Cell: 074 251 6567
