The Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport is intensifying efforts to improve road safety through targeted interventions, infrastructure investment, law enforcement and public awareness initiatives aimed at reducing crashes and saving lives.
Through its Road Safety Strategy, the Department is strengthening law enforcement, expanding road safety education and addressing infrastructure risks across the province.
Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport, Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, said road safety remains a priority.
“Road safety is a shared responsibility that directly affects our communities. Every life lost on our roads is one too many. We remain committed to practical interventions that reduce crashes, protect vulnerable road users and ensure safer travel across Gauteng,” said MEC Diale-Tlabela.
The Department is upgrading ageing bridges in Tshwane, Mogale City and Sedibeng to improve safety, structural integrity and traffic flow.
Construction has also commenced on the new R59 pedestrian bridge in Meyerton, which will provide a safer crossing for pedestrians along one of the province’s busy transport corridors.
The Department is further accelerating the rehabilitation of Gauteng’s approximately 5 592-kilometre provincial road network, including repairs to road defects and improvements to surfaced and gravel roads.
These interventions are supported by collaboration with municipalities, law enforcement agencies, traffic authorities and communities, particularly in high-crash areas.
Smart transport technologies are also being deployed to strengthen traffic monitoring, incident management and traffic regulation.
Motorists are urged to exercise patience and caution as traffic volumes increase, always obey the rules of the road, maintain safe following distances, and avoid reckless or negligent driving.
Public transport operators, including taxi and bus drivers, are strictly urged not to drop off or pick up passengers on freeways.
Passengers must only be picked up and dropped off at designated areas, such as taxi ranks, bus stops and other approved safe zones.
Pedestrians are also encouraged to prioritise their safety by crossing roads only when it is safe to do so, preferably at designated crossing points or controlled intersections such as traffic lights and stop signs.
Law enforcement officers will be deployed across major routes to monitor traffic flow and enforce compliance.
“We urge all road users to take responsibility for their safety and the safety of others. Let us work together to prevent crashes and ensure everyone arrives at their destination safely,” concluded the MEC.
For more information, contact the Department’s Head of Communications Ms Melitah Madiba on 073 644 9935 or MEC’s Spokesperson Mr Lesiba Mpya on 078 450 9841 or email pressoffice.gpdrt@gauteng.gov.za
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