The province is urging communities, pedestrians, motorists, and public transport operators to work together to save lives this festive season.

The appeal came during the official launch of the 2025 Festive Season Road Safety Campaign by Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport, Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, joined by Transport Minister Barbara Creecy and Premier Panyaza Lesufi.

Under the theme “E Thoma Ka Wena – It Starts with You,” the campaign pushes a clear message that this season, every road user must take responsibility. With Gauteng now sitting at 5.5 million registered vehicles, traffic is heavier, risks are higher, and law-enforcement officers face even greater pressure.

“Our roads are busy, and behind every fatal crash is a family in pain. This festive season, we are pleading with everyone: make safer choices. It starts with you.”

A major concern remains pedestrian deaths, which account for more than half of the province’s fatalities, a number that spikes during the holidays.

“This is not just a statistic; it is a crisis,” Diale-Tlabela warned.

To address this, visibility will be increased in hotspots, and speed limits will be strictly enforced, as too many lives are lost simply while walking.

Motorists travelling long distances are urged to avoid night-time driving, as most fatal crashes happen after dark. Recent heavy rains have also damaged parts of the network, making roads slippery and reducing visibility.

“Travel during the day where possible, and slow down on wet or uneven surfaces, your safety is in your hands,” said Diale-Tlabela.

Law-enforcement teams will run intensive operations, focusing on drunk driving, speeding, reckless driving, unroadworthy vehicles, overloading, pedestrian offences, and public transport compliance. Road maintenance crews will remain on standby for storm-related hazards.

“If you break the law, you will be stopped and held accountable,” the MEC said. “Our goal is simple, every-one must arrive home safely.”