As the festive season comes to a close, Gauteng witnesses a somber conclusion with a staggering 242 lives lost on the province’s roads in the past two weeks, according to the Gauteng Traffic Police department.
Tragically, these fatalities resulted from various road crashes, with an alarming statistic indicating that over half of the victims were pedestrians. The department is sounding the alarm, urging motorists to exercise extreme caution on the roads, particularly as many individuals embark on journeys to various recreational destinations for New Year’s Eve festivities.
Sello Maremane, the spokesperson for the Gauteng Traffic Police, emphasized the critical need for responsible behavior on the roads, especially discouraging driving under the influence of alcohol. Maremane stated, “It is therefore important to celebrate responsibly and prioritize your safety and the safety of others by protecting everyone around you, especially those who are vulnerable. We all can help to prevent road crashes by adhering to the rules of the road and behaving responsibly and looking out for pedestrians who attempt to cross on busy roads.”
As the province grapples with this surge in road fatalities, authorities are intensifying efforts to raise awareness about road safety and the consequences of reckless driving. The community is urged to reflect on these tragic events and collectively work towards creating safer roads for everyone.