Free State Department of Police, Roads and Transport in partnership with stakeholders such as SAPS, SANDF, Local Municipalities, Home Affairs, SANRAL N3TC, RTMC, EMS, Disaster Management etc. has developed a comprehensive plan to deal with the challenges of the Festive Season.
The Plan also takes into consideration that the National Elective Conference of the ANC will add more pressure on traffic in addition to the high traffic volumes caused by holiday makers and people going home for the festive Season.
The plan for this Festive Season is underpinned by high visibility of Law Enforcement Agencies supported by Road Safety Officials and other stakeholders mentioned above. There will be no space left unattended. Amongst other things, the activities will include:
- Roadblocks
- Speed control
- Highway Patrols (Blue Lamps)
- Random stop and screen both the driver and the vehicle (alcohol, substances, driver’s license, fatigue, road worthiness etc.)
- Overload control.
The MEC for Police, Roads and Transport Honourable Butana Komphela is urging all motorists to observe the rules and regulations of the road. “Law Enforcement Agencies will be out in full force to deal decisively with irresponsible motorists, so as to reduce road crashes and resultant fatalities and injuries. One death on the road is one too many. Motorists and pedestrians must change their unbecoming attitude.”
This attitude manifests itself in various road-user offences such as:
- Drivers and pedestrians under the influence of alcohol and substances
- Speed
- Pedestrians jay-walking and walking on freeways.
- Unsafe overtaking
- Turning in-front of oncoming traffic, skipping red traffic signals and ignoring stop signs.
- Unlicensed drivers and un-road worthy vehicles.
The MEC has further warned drivers of public transport vehicles not to deviate from their allocated routes or else their vehicles will be impounded and can only be released with payment of R5 000. This is done to curb piracy and conflicts over routes.
The MEC also regards speeding as a serious offence and drivers will be arrested if they exceed the speed limit by 40km/h on the open roads and 30km/h in the built up areas. Vehicles without number plates will be heavily sanctioned. Law enforcement Agencies will also keep a close watch to curb vehicles carrying illegal consignments.
On behalf of the Premier, Free State Government and the Department of Police, Roads and Transport, the MEC Honourable Butana Komphela wishes the Free Staters and all motorists passing through the Free State a safe journey and enjoyable Festive Season.
Enquiries:
Zolile Walaza
Cell: 0824106516
Saki Mohono
Cell: 0823855600
