Sharp focus will fall on road safety in KwaZulu-Natal as the country prepares for the upcoming Easter holiday this weekend.
Officials from the province, which attracts a large number of local and international travellers, on Sunday launched the provincial leg of the 2014 Easter holiday road safety campaign in Clermont township, EThekwini.
Health MEC Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo – who stood in for Transport, Community and Liaison MEC Willies Mchunu – led the People’s March for Safety, which traversed the township from Clermont Rank to Sugar Ray Xulu Stadium.
The march was preceded by an awareness raising motorcade through the township, which was used to encourage the community to prioritise road safety and also root out criminal elements within the area.
“This launch symbolises the beginning of the department’s intensified road safety programme during the Easter holiday and beyond. All enforcement agencies are on alert to deal with the high traffic volumes expected in the province and act decisively with those who are breaking the law,” said MEC Dhlomo while addressing over 3 000 people at the stadium.
He urged road users to always observe road traffic rules, fasten their seatbelts, not drive under the influence of alcohol, ensure that vehicles are roadworthy and exercise patience on the road.
He further wished all religious groups, who will be travelling to different destinations, safe travels and urged them to pray for the reduction of fatalities on the roads.
“We urge all public transport operators to ferry passengers safely to their destinations. It is pleasing to know that the Santaco leadership is in support of all initiatives that are meant to save lives on the roads,” said MEC Dhlomo.
A total of 792 traffic officers will be deployed throughout the province and visible in high accident zones. The South African Police Service and customs, cross-border and immigration forces will form part of the broader law enforcement plan.
The launch was also attended by the KZN Transport HOD Sbusiso Gumbi; EThekwini mayor James Nxumalo; the Deputy President and provincial chairperson of the SA National Taxi Council (Santaco), Boy Zondi and other local leaders. – SAnews.gov.za
