Once again it is Easter Time, a worshipping period to many South Africans. At the same time people will be traveling to various destinations for short vacations. The Easter Period is meant to be a solemn and spiritual season.
The MEC, Police, Roads and Transport Honourable Butana Komphela is making a fervent plea to all motorists not to turn this Easter into a killing spree with many people particularly passengers and pedestrians losing their lives.
“It is time that this carnage that plays itself on our roads must come to an end with immediate effect. For too long, many families have lost valuable members and this time opens deep seated wounds” said the Honourable MEC.
Drivers and pedestrian negligence and irresponsible behaviour are the main causes of deaths and injuries, for example:
- Drivers and pedestrians under the influence of alcohol and substances
- Speed
- Pedestrians jay walking of freeways
- Unsafe overtaking
- Turning in-front of oncoming traffic, skipping red traffic signals and ignoring stop signs
- Unlicensed drivers and un-roadworthy vehicles
Our strategy for this Easter will be underpinned by Road Safety Education and high visibility of Law Enforcement Agencies (roadblocks, random stop and screening drivers and vehicle fitness, highway patrols and operation Hlokomela).
We appeal to all motorists to drive with their headlamps on even during the day. Drivers are urged to take a rest after every two hours because fatigue has been identified as a major contributor to road crashes. Road construction is underway on almost all major routes and requires drivers to be patient and vigilant.
In the spirit of the Decade of Action the Honourable MEC is urging all motorists to respect one another and behave appropriately by observing all the rules of the road.
Weather Bureau is forecasting heavy rains in some parts of the province. Drivers are urged to adjust their speed to suit weather conditions.
Invitation to launch of the Decade of Action Easter 2013.
The Honourable MEC: Police, Roads and Transport cordially invite all Media Houses to the official Launch of the Decade of Action Easter 2013
Date: Thursday, 28 March 2013
Time: 9h30 for 10h00
Venue: N8 towards Botshabelo
NB. The National Deputy Minister of Transport Honourable Sindisiwe Chikunga will attend the Launch.
Enquiries:
Z Walaza
Cell: 082 410 6516
Saki Mohono
Cell: 082 385 5600
