Road users urged to be cautious as they head home from holidays
The Gauteng Traffic Police are on high alert, and anyone found outdoors during the curfew, between 9pm and 5am, may be arrested on the spot
Major roads across Gauteng are expected to be heavily congested as holidaymakers return to the province this week.
The Gauteng Traffic Police urge motorists to adhere to the rules of the road and exercise extreme caution during this period.
According to Gauteng Traffic Police spokesperson Sello Maremane, many major routes leading into Gauteng are expected to be very busy in the next few days.
“Road users, including public transport operators, are also advised to adhere to the prescribed speed limits and ensure that their vehicles are roadworthy upon embarking on their long-distance trips. We plead with them to rest every two hours in order to avoid fatigue,” Maremane said.
The following roads are expected to be very busy:
• The N1 freeway Polokwane to Pretoria
• The N1 freeway from Bloemfontein to Johannesburg
• The N4 freeway from Emalahleni to Pretoria
• The N4 freeway from Rustenburg to Pretoria
• The N3 freeway from Durban to Johannesburg
• The N12 freeway from Potchefstroom to Johannesburg
Pedestrians are also urged to cross the roads only when it is safe to do so and avoid jaywalking at all costs.
“Many road fatalities across the country experienced this festive season have been attributed to excessive speeding, unsafe overtaking, reckless and negligent driving as well as driving under the influence of alcohol,” said Maremane.
The Gauteng Traffic Police have also noted a trend whereby road users leave their areas late which result in them failing to reach their destination before the curfew starts.
“The Gauteng Traffic Police have observed that the high proportion of fatal crashes, including pedestrian crashes occur during the night time, despite traffic volumes being lower during that time. We would like to warn these road users that the Gauteng Traffic Police will be on high alert and anyone driving after the 9pm curfew will be arrested on the spot,” added Maremane.
Authorities appeal to road users to adhere to the Covid-19 health protocols which include the wearing of masks, practising of social distancing and sanitising or washing of hands regularly.
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