Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za

2-minute read
08 April 2023 | 12:59 CAT

Photo credit: Head Topics

Law enforcement in all provinces has launched special Easter Weekend safety campaigns on the eve of the long weekend. This is an especially deadly weekend regarding road safety, with statistics from the Road Traffic Management Corporation indicating that 270 people died on the country’s roads over the Easter period in 2021. In the last decade, 2500 people have died over this long weekend.

Radio Islam International discussed Road Safety Issues during the Easter Weekend with the Automobile Association’s Layton Beard.

According to Beard, the deadly accidents can be attributed to the surge in traffic volumes on all major routes in the country, accompanied by many other factors, including disobeying the rules of the road. Statistics show excessive speeding, drunk driving and texting while driving contribute to the high death toll on the road.

There have been several safety campaigns over the years. However, have yet to receive the intended outcomes of a positive impact.

Meanwhile, Unathi Binqose, the spokesperson for the Eastern Cape transport department, said the department and officials would take a firm stance on drunk driving this year, with law enforcement officers already being instructed to take a zero-tolerance approach.

He also stated that emergency medical personnel would be on high alert in the event of an accident on the province’s roads.

Law enforcement officials have warned motorists in all provinces to expect increased roadblocks, patrols, search and seizure operations and strategically deployed resources.

Listen to the full interview with Host Annisa Essack on Radio Islam’s podcast.