In an unprecedented show of force and government’s concerted efforts to effectively respond to road traffic needs and improve road safety, KwaZulu-Natal Premier Mr Sihle Zikalala accompanied by MEC for Transport, Community Safety and Liaison, Ms Neliswa Peggy Nkonyeni today, 31 March 2021, launched the Easter Road Safety Campaign to promote responsible road use over the Easter long-weekend and beyond.

A total of 1279 vehicles were stopped in a multi-disciplinary roadblock at the Mariannhill Toll Plaza with 30 various charges and one suspension.  This is expected to increase as the Easter weekend kicks on as the province anticipates an influx of people and increased traffic volumes, with travels to work, leisure and pilgrims.

Premier Zikalala said this road block was intended to check the road safety worthiness of vehicles, compliance of Covid-19 protocols and driver capability.

“What we want is to ensure that people follow all protocols of Covid-19 and ensure that road users follow protocols and obey the rules and the law,” said Zikalala.

MEC for Transport, Community Safety and Liaison, Ms Neliswa Peggy Nkonyeni said that they would conduct other strategic operations over the Easter weekend.

“We want to ensure that our road users are driving on our roads responsibly so, they avoid consumption of alcohol before they arrive at their destinations, checking their speed limits and also to ensure that drivers have a passenger list for long distance travelling,” said MEC Nkonyeni.

Premier Zikalala and MEC Nkonyeni then proceeded to conduct a road safety blitz at the Eastern Cape Long Distance Taxi Rank in Williams Road where they handed out calendars and Easter eggs to passengers and wished them well on their travel.

ENDS//