GEORGE NEWS - George Municipal Traffic is geared for the expected increased traffic during the upcoming school holiday, which starts on 20 March and encompasses Human Rights Day on the 21st as well as the Easter long weekend.
George Traffic Chief Janine Wells says the George municipal area commonly sees an increase in both local and foreign visitors who come to enjoy the beaches and popular establishments.
Correspondingly, traffic volumes on all major routes increase during this time.
"George Municipal Traffic ... will be on high alert by ensuring visible policing and deal appropriately with offenders, whether for excessive speeding, reckless and negligent driving, inconsiderate driving or drunk driving,” Wells says.
“Increased activities are aimed at reducing fatalities during this Easter and school holiday period. Various vehicle checkpoints will be set up on major routes in conjunction with other enforcement entities. Patrols will also be done throughout urban and residential areas focusing on pedestrian safety and jaywalking.”
Pedestrians on N2
Pedestrian safety on the N2 remains a major concern and the traffic department, together with other enforcement entities, will continue with awareness campaigns on the N2 highway and provincial roads in the George municipal area.
The vehicle checkpoints will focus on driver and vehicle fitness, overloading of public transport and private vehicles, driving under the influence of alcohol and the wearing of safety belts by all occupants.
Long-distance public transport
Operations will further focus on long-distance public transport such as taxis, midi-buses, and buses to ensure compliance with the National Land Transport Act and National Road Traffic Act.
Simultaneously, these checks will allow for rest periods in an attempt to address driver fatigue and ensure safety of commuters and other road users.
Roadworthiness
Any vehicles that are suspected not to be roadworthy will be taken to the nearest vehicle testing station for detailed checks.
Alcohol
Random breathalyser screening will be done at all operations. According to Wells, the ongoing focus will be on excessive speeding and driving under the influence, which is a huge contributor to accidents and fatalities.
Fog
Residents and visitors alike should be vigilant in coastal areas, where foggy conditions with poor visibility often occurs. In such conditions, drivers are requested to switch on headlights and reduce speed.
Members of the public are urged to join the campaign to reduce road carnage by reporting reckless and negligent drivers or unattended/broken down vehicles on dark roads to George Municipality on emergency number 044 801 6300.
Wells wishes all residents and visitors a safe journey over the holidays and the Easter period.
Janine Wells Traffic Chief Uniform LR
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