KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) MEC for Transport, Community Safety and Liaison Mr Willies Mchunu has issued a stern warning to all motorists to drive cautiously in this rainy weather. Motorists are urged to adjust their driving habits to suit the prevailing weather conditions. There appears to be damage on the road due to the weather. Motorists are advised to use alternate routes when commuting.
Speed limits must be drastically reduced and motorists should ensure that prior to travelling, their head lamps, brake lights, rear lights and windscreen wipers are fully functional.
Just this morning, 11 December 2012 there have been three accidents reported. One was reported at the N3 South bound near New England Road, Pietermaritzburg, where two people sustained injuries. The second accident happened on the P603 water bridge farm.
This accident claimed one life and casualties. The third accident occurred on the N3 north bound Shongweni off ramp, where a truck and car pileup claimed a life and casualties.
Mchunu urges all motorists and people of KZN to drive cautiously in this weather and ensure they remain visible at all times.
“It is quite disturbing that before 12 noon two people have been reported dead due to road accidents. I appeal to motorists to drive carefully in this bad weather conditions to avoid loss of life. Some roads have been reported to be damaged therefore I appeal to motorist to be extra careful in those areas. We have dispatched our traffic officers to assist on the ground and to divert motorists to alternative routes.
The roads are also slippery so please reduce your speed and keep a safe following distance. It is regrettable that we have been receiving a number of accidents happening on our roads. We therefore appeal to motorists to consider the weather conditions and adjust their driving habits. We urge the communities to also assist by reporting the damaged roads so we could
assist in providing alternate routes,” said Mchunu.
These roads were affected by rain and we call for patience by motorists:
- N2S Parkrynie Area
- R56 between Richmond and Ixopo
- P90 Insuze Bridge at Inkandla
- N2 Balitto off Ramp there is a mud slide
- N2S MT Edgecomb slow lane obstructed due to mud slide
Media contact:
Kwanele Ncalane
Cell: 072 803 1462 or 079 699 5755
