Statement by Transport and Public Works Minister Daylin Mitchell
Every year on 24 September, South Africa celebrates Heritage Day. The diversity of cultures, beliefs, and traditions that make up our nation is one of our national treasures.
Because Heritage Day falls on a Friday this year, we expect an increase in traffic. While most of us will be enjoying the long weekend with friends and family, Western Cape Traffic Law Enforcement will continue to provide a 24/7-hour service. Our officers have been deployed to heighten visibility on all major routes to safely manage and control the flow of traffic leaving and entering the Province, while stringently applying the law to enforce against reckless and inconsiderate driver behaviour, apply limitations towards fatigued drivers, enforce speed limits, alcohol enforcement, commuter safety as well as any other noncompliance from road users.
We in the Department of Transport and Public Works are playing our part in keeping our roads safe, but we cannot do it alone.
There are numerous integrated operations planned throughout the Heritage Day weekend however not limited to the following: Inter-Provincial Corridor operations between the WC, NC and EC, public transport operations, fatigue management, alcohol operations, moving violations as well as vehicle/driver fitness operations.
Buckle up, even on the shortest trip. Ensure that your seatbelt is secured across your hips, not your stomach. Make sure children are secured in an age-appropriate harness. Ensure your vehicle is roadworthy. Stick to the speed limit. Don’t drink and drive. Plan to take a rest break in a safe place every 200 km or 2 hours. Don’t allow your devices to distract you from keeping your full attention on the road. Keep observing COVID-19 safety protocols, especially if you use public transport.
This Heritage Day, we can help build social cohesion through celebrating our own cultural traditions and heritage and being open to learning from others about theirs. I intend to do so, and I hope you do the same.
Have an enjoyable and safe Heritage Day weekend.
Media Enquiries
Jandré Bakker
Head of Communication
Department of Transport and Public Works
Email: Jandre.Bakker@westerncape.gov.za