Road safety in Mpumalanga received a major boost this week when the MEC for Public Works, Roads and Transport, Thulasizwe Thomo, officially handed over eight new patrol vehicles to the Department’s Transport Inspectorate.

The handover took place during a law enforcement operation along the busy N4 at Alkmaar, just outside Mbombela, and formed part of the province’s build-up activities towards October Transport Month. The Department will use the month to roll out initiatives and share its programme aimed at raising awareness of road safety and improving public transport standards.

In his address, MEC Thomo stressed the importance of the investment.

“The procurement of these new patrol vehicles will enhance law enforcement visibility and help ensure the safety of all public transport users on our roads. This brand-new fleet will be deployed to strengthen operations along key strategic routes across the four district offices within the province,” he said.

The eight vehicles were evenly distributed, with Ehlanzeni, Nkangala, Gert Sibande and Bohlabela (Bushbuckridge) each receiving two patrol units.

MEC Thomo was joined by the Head of Department and senior officials, while officers from the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison also took part in the roadblock operation. The joint enforcement effort highlighted an integrated approach to tackling road safety challenges.

The new patrol vehicles are expected to boost visibility along high-risk routes, assist in joint operations with SAPS, and ensure compliance among motorists. Community members welcomed the initiative, saying that increased policing presence would reduce reckless driving and lower road fatalities.

As October Transport Month approaches, the Department has promised more programmes aimed at educating road users, promoting responsible driving, and better equipping law enforcement agencies.