Truckers urged to obey road rules
Government and stakeholders must move with speed in implementing all agreed-upon short-term measures
TRANSPORT, Community Safety and Liaison MEC Sipho Hlomuka has called on coal tipper truck drivers and owners to work with the government and Pongola community to save lives and adhere to traffic laws.
The agreement to reopen the N2 through Pongola for heavy-duty vehicles was taken earlier this month, and is under strict conditions.
ALSO READ: Youth call on government to address GBV, unemployment
Pongola residents disallowed heavy-duty trucks through their area after the accident that claimed the lives of 20 people, including 18 schoolchildren in the Glodlwayo area in September.
The resumption of operations follows a marathon of engagements with national and provincial government, Pongola Municipality, traditional leaders, business owners, and community organisations.
Negotiations were intensified by the outcry of communities living on the R66/R34 route between eDumbe and Empangeni, as truckers were forced to use these roads as an alternative to the N2. Residents complained the R34/R66 was not designed for such heavy loads.
Hlomuka said the government and stakeholders must move with speed in implementing all agreed-upon short-term measures.
“We welcome this decision by the community of Pongola, and we will sharpen our daily monitoring of the movements of these trucks,” said Hlomuka.
“The opening of the [N2 to] side-tipper trucks gives impetus to the government’s efforts to revive the economy. The lives of all people are important, hence we appeal to truck owners and drivers to adhere to traffic regulations and ensure there is no further loss of lives.
“We will continue working with all structures in Pongola, including the municipality and traditional leadership, to improve safety measures.
“Already the satellite Road Traffic Inspectorate office is operational and will be part of the integrated plans to maximise enforcement targeting heavy vehicles,” he said.
Hlomuka said the government will receive weekly reports on the behaviour of truck drivers in the area. This will form a basis for engagement with the trucking industry to introduce norms.
HAVE YOUR SAY
Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.
For news straight to your phone invite us:
WhatsApp – 060 784 2695
Instagram – zululand_observer
