Launch of the 2024 Festive Season Road Safety Campaign by Department of Transport Minister Barbara Creecy

As the festive season approaches, Lenasia residents planning to travel out of the province or city should prioritize safety and exercise caution during their journeys. December is a busy travel period, and with many people heading out for holidays, road conditions can be challenging. It's crucial to plan ahead, check for road updates, prepare vehicles, and be mindful of the increased traffic and potential hazards on the roads. Ensuring that homes and belongings are secure before leaving will also help prevent incidents while away.

In line with the festive period, the Department of Transport has launched the 2024 Festive Season Road Safety Campaign, which also marks South Africa’s 30 years of freedom and democracy. The campaign aims to address the ongoing road safety crisis, promoting responsible road use, safe driving, and heightened awareness of the dangers on the roads.

Minister of Transport, Barbara Creecy, emphasized that the campaign is critical to reducing fatalities and promoting safe driving habits. President Cyril Ramaphosa also acknowledged the economic and social impact of road crashes, noting their cost to the economy and the devastating toll they take on families. According to the 2023 State of Road Safety Report, South Africa saw 10,180 fatal crashes and 11,883 deaths last year, with pedestrian fatalities accounting for a significant portion of the toll.

While there was a slight reduction in road deaths last year, the need for further improvements remains urgent. Human error, poor road design, and inadequate infrastructure continue to contribute to these tragedies. The campaign seeks to reduce road fatalities by 50% by 2030, as set out in the National Road Safety Strategy.

The four pillars of this campaign are:  

1. **Responsible Driving**  

2. **Pedestrian Safety**  

3. **Enforcement and Education**  

4. **Collaboration** with various stakeholders to raise awareness

To tackle high-risk areas, 20 critical routes will have increased patrols focusing on speed limit compliance, drunk driving prevention, and vehicle inspections. Messaging through radio, social media, and cooperation with emergency services will also support the initiative.

Minister Creecy encouraged all road users to take essential steps to ensure safety, such as maintaining vehicle roadworthiness, adhering to pedestrian regulations, avoiding alcohol consumption while driving, and always wearing seatbelts. These practices, along with collective responsibility, are key to reducing road fatalities and injuries. 

The campaign’s message, “Arrive Alive,” serves as a reminder to all travelers to be vigilant, cautious, and responsible on the road this festive season.

Photo: Wikipedia