Byline: Nonjabuliso Nhlambo

07 December 2023

Many people are expected to be on the road this weekend. Many more are also gearing themselves up for stokvel gatherings where they will share the dividends of their year-long savings. 

On the other hand, most companies will this week host traditional year-end functions for their employees. 

These and other activities will see people consuming alcohol, and this will likely lead to increased drinking and driving cases. 

It is in this context that Mpumalanga MEC for Community Safety, Security, and Liaison, Mr. Vusi Shongwe, is urging people who will be participating in any gatherings and festivities to do so responsibly. 

Shongwe called for those who will be on the road this weekend and next long weekend to exercise due diligence, respect the rules, and not drink and drive. 

Revellers and partygoers are also advised to ensure that they prioritize their own safety and that of other road users. 

‘”We must all play our part this festive season by being vigilant on the road. Those who travel long distances should rest sufficiently along the way. They must also ensure that their vehicles are roadworthy,” says the MEC.

Motorists are also called upon to be extremely patient when approaching construction sites on the road.

As part of responding to anticipated traffic volumes on most roads, the department will continue to monitor traffic flow and enforce the law. 

The department will also deploy traffic officials during the night on identified priority routes. 

The night shift at the Lebombo Border Gate will continue to be in place in order to tackle continued congestion.

Furthermore, road safety activations will be done across the province as part of the Festive Season Campaign.

According to the MEC, law enforcement will not show any leniency towards reckless driver behavior or any lawlessness. They will impound vehicles that are not roadworthy without any hesitation. 

Shongwe also added that all plans that are currently in place will have a huge impact if motorists and all road users cooperate and obey the rules.