By Kopano Dibakwane
People travelling long distances must rest sufficiently along the way.
This was the message by Mpumalanga MEC for the Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison(DCSSL), Vusi Shongwe, cautioning people as they travel between Sunday and Monday after the Easter long weekend.
Shongwe said that fatigue affects the quality of decisions made by drivers, which often cause car accidents. He called upon people to be cautious, obey the rules of the road and buckle up to reduce the the impact of injuries during crashes and collisions.
“ Drivers should take regular breaks. They must concentrate and remain in extreme alert. Hence, we want them to rest every hour or 200 kilometres of driving. They should not rely too much on energy drinks but rest and alternate driving with fellow occupants where possible,” said Shongwe.
According to statement released by DCSSL spokesperson, Moeti Mmusi, law enforcement officers have stopped and checked over 40 000 vehicles across various roads since Thursday(28 March). Mmusi said that over 19 000 heavy motor vehicles went through various weighbridges.
“ About 5 248 drivers were issued with summonses for various offences. Over 130 vehicles were also discontinued, and 119 vehicles were impounded by the traffic officers. About 8 motorists were arrested for suspected drunken driving, ” said Mmusi.
Shongwe has called upon public transport operators who will be ferrying congregants after Easter church services to ensure that their vehicles are roadworthy before departing.
He advised motorists to be cautious of wet weather and misty conditions prevailing on various roads. Shongwe said that motorists need to adjust their driving according to various prevailing conditions and adhere to prescribed speed limits.
“ We must put the lives of passengers first and not profits or number of loads. Safety must come first. Law enforcement officers must continue showing zero tolerance to errant drivers and enforce the law without fear or favour,” said the MEC.
Traffic officers reportedly remain deployed at night to deal with congestion at Lebombo Border Gate and other identified priority routes.
