As the school year ends and thousands prepare to travel for holidays, weddings and family events, motorists are being urged to adjust their driving to the prevailing weather and increased traffic volumes. Heavy movement between provinces and neighbouring SADC countries is expected from Friday, 12 December, with peak periods predicted for 19 December and 26 December as Christmas and New-Year travel intensifies.

Mpumalanga MEC for Community Safety, Security and Liaison, Jackie Macie, has appealed to all motorists to help prevent further loss of life on the province’s roads. He reminded communities that too many families have suffered heartbreak due to festive-season crashes.

Macie stressed the importance of ensuring vehicles are roadworthy before embarking on long trips. “Vehicle owners must ensure their vehicles are roadworthy and all defects are corrected before travelling,” he said. He further called on drivers to obey road rules, avoid alcohol, and adjust to wet and unpredictable weather conditions.

This weekend will see intensified traffic-law enforcement across Mpumalanga, with joint operations by the provincial government, municipalities and the police. Road Safety Education teams will be out conducting awareness sessions for drivers, passengers and pedestrians. Law enforcers will take a zero-tolerance stance on drunk driving, speeding, overloading and unroadworthy vehicles. Vehicles found without number plates will be impounded on the spot.

Macie said he is confident that the measures in place will contribute to safer roads. “With increased cooperation and compliance by all road users, many lives can be saved,” he emphasised.