The manager responsible for traffic and road safety in Musina, Mr Daniel Hlungwane, said his team would have no mercy on traffic offenders this Easter holiday. Hlungwane was speaking during the launch of the Easter Holiday Safety Campaign, which took place along the N1 road in Musina last Wednesday (29 March). The annual campaign aims to minimise road accidents in the Musina municipal area.
During the launch, passing vehicles were stopped and checked for roadworthiness, and those found with defects were issued with fines. Driver's permits and licenses were also checked.
Hlungwane said that Musina, as a border town, experienced high volumes of traffic, especially during holidays. "We do our work every day, but we need to intensify our efforts at this time of the year, as many people travel our roads to their various destinations. Our duty is to make sure that everyone is safe during this busy time of the year. Many road accidents that lead to the loss of lives or serious injuries are avoidable, but some drivers choose to ignore the rules of the road," he said.
He urged drivers to take a rest at least once every 200km. "Fatigue is one of the major causes of carnage. We can avoid many accidents if our long-distance drivers give themselves time to rest. Another contributing factor is speeding and overloading vehicles, either with passengers or goods. It is very difficult to control an overloaded vehicle. That is why many road users lose control of their vehicles, which lead to major accidents."
Hlungwane said that, just as drivers had a responsibility to obey the rules of the road, pedestrians too had a role to play. "We urge our drivers to refrain from using intoxicants, drugs or alcohol when driving because this has a negative effect on their concentration and driving ability. Pedestrians must at all times use pedestrian crossings when crossing the road and wear visible clothing at night. They too must avoid walking along the road under the influence of alcohol."