Galleries Local news News News galleries

Rolling out road safety awareness

Motorists from neighbouring provinces made pit stops at Ultra City where the Transport Department Deputy Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga encouraged shared driving

April 19, 2017

Danielle Greaves 1 minute read

In the spirit of keeping motorists safe on the roads, the Transport Department Deputy Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga, offered road safety advice to motorists passing through Ultra City on Monday.

On Monday holiday makers returned home after the Easter holidays and the March school holiday neared its end.
This was a period of mass movement on roads.

Motorists from neighbouring provinces made pit stops at Ultra City where the Transport Department Deputy Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga encouraged shared driving and that a safety break be taken after every two hours.

Mrs Chikunga, together with her support team of 22, handed drivers pamphlets on road safety and law enforcement as well as goodie bags, with the aim of reducing road carnage.

The pamphlets were packed with handy tips on cycling, speeding, the importance of wearing seat-belts and more. Driver behaviour is one of the most crucial elements in ensuring road safety.A recent study found that road traffic injuries are the leading cause of death among 15-19-year-olds.

The national Transport Department, in partnership with other provinces and agencies such as the South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL), decided to respond to such alarming statistics with initiatives such as road safety and law enforcement operations.

This operation focused on education and awareness and was aimed at creating responsible and safe citizens. Drivers shared with Mrs Chikunga that they experienced mostly trouble-free journeys and added that the operation was a very good idea.