Image Source: SowetanLive
Local – Traffic volumes are expected to surge from Thursday afternoon into Friday morning as South Africans travel to places of worship and holiday destinations for the Easter long weekend. Another spike is anticipated on Monday as people return home.
Authorities urge travellers to plan their routes accordingly, especially on busy routes such as the N1, N2, N3, N4, and R61. The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), in collaboration with law enforcement, has intensified operations to ensure road safety and regulatory compliance.
Since the start of the Easter campaign on 20 March 2025, 1,155 vehicles have been impounded. Mpumalanga accounted for the majority, with 792 vehicles taken off the road, followed by Limpopo (88), Western Cape (87), Gauteng (78), North West (39), KwaZulu-Natal (37), Free State (31), and Eastern Cape (3). No impoundments have been recorded in the Northern Cape to date.
The RTMC reminded public transport operators to ensure they hold valid permits for passenger transport on specific routes and to use trailers for luggage rather than mixing goods with passengers.
Illegal operators attempting to exploit increased demand are being warned, as many passengers have already been inconvenienced, and vehicle owners face steep release fees.
“Law enforcement authorities will be out in full might to ensure compliance with all road regulations,” the RTMC warned. “Authorities will not hesitate to impound vehicles operating contrary to the provisions of the National Transport Act.”
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Road Safety Measures and Public Reminders
To reduce fatigue and help prevent accidents, Sasol filling stations along major routes have been designated as rest stops, offering motorists a safe space to pause, stretch, and refresh. Drivers are also encouraged to check weather forecasts and delay travel in cases of heavy rain or poor visibility.
Chief Facilitator of FleetMax DriiveSMART, Ashref Ismail, reinforced the call for caution, emphasising that human error remains the leading cause of fatal crashes.
He identified speeding, impaired driving, fatigue, and distractions as key risks. He advised long-distance travellers to rest every two hours or 200 kilometres.
“I always say: turn the journey into part of the destination. Make it a fun experience. Don’t let it become a race to break a record or arrive by a specific time.”
“Let driving to the destination be part of the enjoyment. Make sure everyone is buckled up. As the driver, it’s your responsibility. You are the captain of the ship,” said Ismail.
He also raised concerns about pedestrian and passenger safety, particularly in taxis and buses, where many do not have a say in the vehicle, they board. Ismail called on drivers to show responsibility and urged motorists to be vigilant around foot traffic.
“We need to take care of our pedestrians. We know that they can sometimes be careless or even reckless, but we have to compensate for that. It’s our duty to look out for them.”
He added, “Some walk at night wearing clothes that make them nearly invisible. Others are distracted by devices or music. The reality is, we must overcome their errors and do everything we can to ensure they are protected.”
Moreover, the RTMC urged all motorists to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy before setting out. Critical safety features, such as brakes, tyres, lights, and windscreen wipers, must be properly working to handle adverse weather and busy roads.
