Deputy minister, MEC and executive mayor urges holidaymakers to travel safely
High traffic volume is expected this Easter weekend as most people will be on the roads visiting family and friends or heading to holiday destinations countrywide.
The deputy minister of transport, Dikeledi Magadzi, urges road users to adhere to Covid-19 health protocols when they embark on their journeys.
Magadzi and Limpopo Transport and Community Safety MEC, Mavhungu Lerule-Ramakhanya, are currently leading a road safety operation on the N1 between Bela-Bela and Modimolle.
The department said in a statement that the awareness operation is aimed at encouraging motorists to drive with caution and adhere to the rules of the road.
“Traffic has started piling on the N1 between Bela-Bela and Polokwane with thousands of migrant workers going home for Easter holidays. The number of vehicles on the N1 is expected to increase this afternoon with possible congestions at the tollgates.”
Drivers are also urged to do their part by not drinking and driving for a #ZeroFatal Easter Holiday.
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Meanwhile, the executive mayor of Mopani, Pule Shayi, conducted a 2021 Arrive Alive Easter campaign at Haenertsburg along the R71. He appealed to holidaymakers not to lower their guards as the Easter Weekend begins. Shayi said the R71 road is identified as one of the hotspots in the province.
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“Let’s celebrate responsibility as we all know that Covid-19 is still with us. We should continue to adhere to health protocols: Social distancing, wearing our masks and sanitizing or washing our hands regularly. Let’s avoid large gatherings. If we do travel, let’s ensure that we only use roadworthy vehicles. Let’s avoid drinking while driving.”
“We have had a number of reported drowning cases over the past few weeks and urge parents to always monitor the whereabouts of their children. We wish to encourage you to report all emergencies to the Disaster Management’s centralized communication centre on 015-306-7000.”
The Executive Mayor was joined by Greater Tzaneen Municipality Mayor, Maripe Mangena, Maruleng Municipality Mayor, Dipuo Thobejane, and the MMC for Transport Japisa Mathonsi.
