A specialised emergency application featuring integration with a WhatsApp group is now available to residents travelling the N17 highway between Ermelo and the Gosforth Plaza toll gate in Alberton.

The platform enables users to report and receive information on accidents, road hazards, fires and medical or life-threatening emergencies requiring ambulance assistance, as well as request immediate aid with a single click on their mobile phones.

Additionally, travellers on the N17 can use live location tracking, providing an added layer of safety during emergencies and hijacking incidents.

While the app, Kiewiet, serves a national user base, individuals within the Govan Mbeki area can now access the dedicated N17 Emergency Response WhatsApp group, named N17 Safety & Alerts.

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The initiative originated from local entrepreneur Abie Patel of Kinross, who leads the N17 Muslim Burial Coach established 25 years ago.

Abie has a long-standing commitment to supporting those in distress, motivated by personal experience following his mother’s passing 27 years ago.

Over the years, he has developed extensive relationships with emergency services along the N17, particularly expanding his network during the 2015 drought through Operate Hydrate, which involved delivering water across communities nationwide.

According to Abie, the N17 Safety & Alerts WhatsApp group is accessible via the Kiewiet link for a nominal fee, primarily allocated to live location—a feature that provides critical data to authorities in cases of abduction or urgent roadside assistance.

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“The R60 fee covers one household and up to three individuals. It grants access to an emergency button on your mobile device, instant alerts shared with your community and real-time location of an emergency call for prompt support.

“Additionally, in the event of an accident, users’ medical aid details are instantly available, ensuring rapid coordination with their healthcare provider and expediting deployment of the appropriate medical assistance.

“With just one tap, members gain vital support when it matters most, making Kiewiet’s N17 Safety & Alerts not only a smart choice, but an essential companion for every traveller on this route,” stated Abie.

The app offers a panic button for each of the following options: crime, medical, roadside assistance, and fire. Join this initiative and take back your family’s safety through Kiewiet’s N17 Safety & Alerts and community reaction.

For more information, contact Yusuf Saber on 071 993 3334.