Collins Chabane Mayor Elvis Lebea says road safety is in our hands
He added this year's road safety campaign's theme is to emphasise that road safety is a collective responsibility.
LIMPOPO – Nhlayiseko wa vutomi bya vanhu emagondzweni wu le emavokweni ya hina, ma tikhomele ya hina emagondzweni swi na nkoka eka vutomi bya hina, maxaka na vanghana va hina.
Loosely translated as ‘the safety of people who will be travelling all over is in our hands, our conduct is necessary for the safety of our loved ones’, Collins Chabane Acting Mayor Elvis Lebea addressed passengers and drivers at the launch of the festive season Road Safety Arrive Alive Campaign held at Masia village.
He urged passengers and drivers to take care of themselves over the busy period on the roads.
Also read: Road safety campaign launches ahead of the festive season
“The festive season is characterised by increased volumes of road users on their way home or visiting loved ones. These volumes demand a higher level of vigilance from drivers and pedestrians but also places severe strain on the resources of our traffic management systems. We, however, have processes in place that draw strength from a strong collection of law enforcement agencies and stakeholders to ensure we are on the roads in numbers, checking compliance and bringing those to book who endanger the lives of others with their recklessness and negligence,” said Lebea.
He added this year’s theme is to emphasise that road safety is a collective responsibility.
“Here and there, at the side of our roads, we see little memorial shrines where family and friends remember those who died. One cannot help but wonder who it was, where they were on their way to, how did this happen, and who came here to weep at their loss. Our broad operational plan for the festive season and road safety education operations wants all our law enforcement officers and stakeholders on the roads. Broadening the safety net with maintained and comprehensive visibility means that we improve our chances of being at the right time and place to prevent unnecessary accidents,” he said.
Also read: Ensure a safe trip along the Bakwena N1N4 route this festive season
He told CV that human factors remain the main contributor to road accidents and fatalities.
“When we look at the numbers, the age distribution also suggests that young people are more prone to accidents. The fact that we have young people on our roads behaving irresponsibly is concerning. There will be parties and drinking and a general sense of joyfulness, but it is and will never be acceptable to put your life, the lives of your passengers, and the lives of other road users in danger because you drink and drive.”
He encouraged motorists to do safety checks on their vehicles too.
“Make sure your vehicle has been serviced and is roadworthy. Plan your trips in advance and take regular rests. Do not overload and appoint a designated driver if you plan on driving to and from parties,” he concluded.
