The Mpumalanga Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison has urged motorists travelling through or within the province to exercise caution this Women’s Day long weekend.

In a statement issued today, August 8, the department warned that motorists should prepare for notable delays, temporary speed reductions and stop-and-go controls.

MEC for the department Jackie Macie said: “Road users must plan ahead, allow additional travel time, maintain a safe following distance and adhere to all temporary road signage and speed limits.”

Read: Zero tolerance for Easter weekend traffic violations

He encouraged drivers to rest regularly along their routes and remain alert at all times, adding that patience and diligence are key to ensuring everyone reaches their destination safely.

Key corridors affected by active construction

Motorists travelling along the following key corridors should expect active construction and routine maintenance work:

• N4 at the Gorge near Matsulu
• N4 through Schoemanskloof towards Mbombela
• R40 between Hazyview and White River
• N2 between eMkhondo (Piet Retief) and Pongola
• N11 between Middelburg and Pullenshope.

Heavy mist creates visibility hazards

In addition to roadworks, Macie warned that heavy mist is likely to reduce visibility significantly, particularly during night-time driving on peri-urban and rural stretches of road. Motorists are advised to lower their speed, turn on fog lights where necessary, and strictly obey directions given by road accommodation officers on site.

“We appeal to all motorists who will be on the road this weekend to drive with greater caution,” he said. “Road safety remains the collective responsibility of everyone.”