Pedestrian safety is a big focus for the Gauteng Road and Transport department this festive season. This, as the province has seen an increase in the number of pedestrian deaths.
This comes as Gauteng launches the Provincial Festive Season Road Safety campaign at the Olievenhoutbosch Taxi Rank on Wednesday.
The campaign also focuses on taxi safety and appeals to motorists to respect the rules of the road and abstain from drinking and driving.
Police have been called on to act with integrity and refrain from accepting bribes.
Gearing up for the festive season law enforcement activity, with High police visibility prioritized.
The Taxi industry also played its part. Gauteng SANTACO’s Macdonald Makata says, “It is this time of the year that we don’t want any of the crushes happening with our vehicles. We want to see our commuters reaching their destinations sound and safe.”
Jafta Maubane from Gauteng National Taxi Alliance adds, “We’ve also asked them to make sure the cars are roadworthy and in good condition, and our drivers who drive long distances must make sure that when they feel fatigued, they should stop and take a break.”
While focusing on human behavior on the road, which is often the biggest contributor to road charges, Gauteng aims to keep pedestrians safe.
Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport Kedibone Diale Tlabela says, “The Minister has launched the road safety campaign under the theme ‘Every day without a road death’. And as Gauteng, we are choosing to focus on the pedestrians and jaywalkers. They are the ones who are increasing our statistics.”
And for those who might consume alcoholic beverages at entertainment spaces, the local e-hailing service is your friend this festive season. All in a bid to prevent drinking and driving.
“We have the best rates in the country. So, if you want convenience, if you want safe and affordable rides, Woza ku Khesha,” advises Zwelakhe Sibeko from Shesha e-hailing Service.
The MEC has appealed to everyone to play their part to reduce the carnage on the provincial roads and to ensure a safe traveling experience for all holidaymakers and road users in general.
Video: Gauteng Festive Season Road Safety campaign launched
