LIMPOPO – Heading out this weekend? Don’t be surprised if you hit a roadblock along the way.

The Department of Transport and Community Safety is keeping up its Phuza Weekend operations across Limpopo, with one goal in mind: getting dangerous and reckless drivers off the roads before someone gets hurt.

Vhembe leads the arrest count

The push comes after a worrying month on the province’s roads. In June alone, 107 drivers were arrested for drunk driving across Limpopo.

Vhembe district had the most arrests, with 41 drivers caught driving under the influence. In Capricorn district, one driver blew an alcohol reading of 1.11mg/1000ml – more than four times the legal limit of 0.24mg/1000ml.

The department says the message is simple: no party, braai or celebration is worth someone’s life, or a criminal record.

Expect delays on the N1

Officers will be out day and night this weekend, running roadblocks and patrols across the province. Drivers should expect heavier traffic too, especially on the N1 Northbound coming into Limpopo from Gauteng, where delays at tollgates are likely.

Have a plan before you pour

If you’re planning to drink, arrange a lift home beforehand. Don’t wait until you’re already behind the wheel to make that call.

Motorists can report reckless driving or accidents on the department’s 24-hour toll-free control room: 080 000 6694.