Following the recent tragic crash in Vanderbijlpark that killed 14 learners, the Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport (GDRT) is stepping up road safety measures.

According to department spokesperson King Mthombeni, this will include stricter law enforcement, the use of technology and full compliance with the National Road Traffic Act (NRTA) and National Land Transport Act (NLTA).

“As Gauteng’s road safety authority, we are building legal capacity and creating an online repository of traffic regulations so all road users know their rights and responsibilities. Scholar transport safety is a renewed priority, with tougher enforcement and greater accountability,” Mthombeni said.

He urged the public to report reckless driving, dangerous behaviour or unsafe scholar transport vehicles via 012 999 5407 or 086 140 0800. Video evidence can help identify non-compliant drivers, and parents are encouraged to install dashboard cameras for real-time monitoring.

MEC for Roads and Transport, Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, emphasised that “Learner safety cannot be negotiated. Any scholar transport operator who puts learners at risk will face serious consequences.”

The NRTA places a statutory duty on operators to ensure:

• Vehicles are mechanically safe and roadworthy
• Vehicles are operated safely and lawfully
• Passengers are transported safely
• Passengers enter and exit vehicles safely

These measures are part of the ‘It Starts With You’ campaign, aligned with the national 365 Day Road Safety and Arrive Alive programmes. Enforcement may include suspension or loss of operator status for non-compliance.

Pedestrians must also follow the law:

• Regulation 323(2): No walking on freeways except where allowed
• Regulation 315: Cross only at designated points and obey traffic signs
• Regulation 316(5): No jaywalking or dangerous behaviour

“Road safety is a shared responsibility. Government will enforce the laws, but parents, operators, drivers and pedestrians must all play their part,” concluded Diale-Tlabela.