The Eastern Cape’s Transport Department has vowed to have “zero tolerance” as it embarks on a traffic law enforcement mission. The operation started last Friday.
Nineteen cars have been impounded and several drivers have been arrested for drinking and driving.
These operations aim to ensure road users adhere to the rules of the road. The Transport Department wants to curb the rising number of accidents. Speaking for the department, Noxolo Maile, says their focus is on public transport.
“Our main focus is on public transport, to ensure our road users are safe even passengers. We’ve impounded some public vehicles, and we’ve arrested drivers who were driving under the influence,” says Maile.
Design by Sibusiso Biyela
Commuters have applauded the work done by the department. They say they now feel safe on the roads.
“We are from Cofimvaba. We are going to Durban, eMlazi. We are travelling very well even our driver is good to us, he is complying with the rules of the road,” a commuter explains.
“We thank the Department of Transport and our good driver here, and those who supported us, we got our makoti and we are taking her home,” says another commuter.
SANTACO provincial convener, Mzwandile Mkewana, says their industry is taking extra measures to ensure that trips are well planned, and vehicles are roadworthy.
“We condemn these drivers who drive our vehicles under the influence of liquor, and vehicles that are not roadworthy, we condemn that. We’ve got our internal processes where we deal with matters like that one. Even those vehicles that are with authorities we will deal with that.”
The operation will continue until schools reopen next year.
BELOW | E Cape traffic law enforcement on high alert
Nomzwanele Mngoma
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