MPUMALANGA β The Mpumalanga government has adopted a zero-tolerance approach to lawlessness on the roads this long Easter weekend and beyond.
βTo those who are plotting to disrupt the peace and comfort of our people, they will be arrested,β warned provincial Community Safety, Security and Liaison MEC Jackie Macie.
Macie was speaking during the official launch of the Easter Road Safety Campaign held at Alkmaar in Mbombela on Wednesday, April 16.
Traffic volumes are expected to peak over the Easter weekend, starting Friday, 18 April, as holidaymakers travel to various destinations across the province.
All four regions of Mpumalanga are anticipated to experience heavy traffic volumes, due to their interconnection with neighbouring provinces via the N2, N4 and N11 national roads.
Macie said the government will intensify safety measures to prevent accidents on provincial roads, adding that traffic officers will be βsystematicallyβ deployed at strategic locations known for frequent crashes. βWe will ensure a constant presence at all identified accident hotspots,β he said.
He further expressed confidence that all municipalities would utilise their available resources within their jurisdictions to ensure law enforcement is both visible and effective.
The campaign launch also saw the official handover of 50 brand-new vehicles to traffic law enforcement, aimed at strengthening road safety efforts across Mpumalanga.
Premier Mandla Ndlovu said the vehicles would be used by traffic officers across the province to regulate, monitor and ensure compliance with road laws. βThis significant investment underscores our commitment to the safety and well-being of every road user,β said Ndlovu.
βThese are not just tools of trade, but a demonstration of our dedication to ensuring safer roads.β
According to the Easter Road Safety Report by the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), Mpumalanga recorded 17 fatal crashes during the 2024 Easter weekend β a reduction of two from the number recorded in 2023.