Western Cape urges road users to stay safe ahead of long weekend

The Western Cape Department of Mobility is calling on motorists and pedestrians to be cautious over the upcoming long weekend, with increased traffic expected province-wide. Traffic Chief Maxine Bezuidenhout warns of speeding risks and outlines safety measures amid high-visibility police operations.

Anticipating heavier traffic volumes, Traffic Chief Maxine Bezuidenhout urged road users to remain alert and make responsible choices. "Pedestrians are urged to stay alert, stick to well-lit routes and always make use of designated crossings and bridges," she said. "Whether it’s a long or short journey, please plan your trip in advance and make responsible decisions. If you intend to drink, arrange a sober driver beforehand. Speeding continues to pose a major risk, so keep within the legal limits and adjust your speed to road conditions."

Officers will conduct high-visibility operations along key routes to enforce compliance.

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Transport Minister Barbara Creecy at N1 Kranskop tollgate urging Easter road safety amid heavy traffic.
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Transport minister Creecy urges road safety ahead of Easter weekend

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Transport Minister Barbara Creecy has called on motorists to adhere to road rules ahead of the Easter weekend during a safety inspection at the N1 Kranskop tollgate in Limpopo. She emphasised avoiding alcohol and drugs, obeying speed limits, and ensuring vehicles are roadworthy. Authorities reported heavy traffic on major highways as holiday travel begins.

Over 120 motorists have been arrested for drunk driving in Johannesburg since the start of the Easter long weekend. The Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) confirmed two fatalities in separate road crashes, one involving a pedestrian and the other a passenger. JMPD spokesperson Xolani Fihla urged road users to exercise caution as operations continue.

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Deputy Transport Minister Mkhuleko Hlengwa announced measures to prevent road fatalities during the Easter holidays after meeting Zion Christian Church leaders in Moria outside Polokwane, Limpopo. Officials anticipate heavy traffic on the N1 and R71 roads as a million pilgrims attend conferences at ZCC and Saint Engenas ZCC sites. Authorities aim to replicate last year's zero fatalities on the N1.

Education authorities in the Western Cape and Eastern Cape have closed schools in high-risk areas on Wednesday and Thursday due to an intense low-pressure system bringing life-threatening floods and snow. The South African Weather Service issued multiple Orange-level warnings for disruptive rain, thunderstorms and damaging winds. Officials prioritised pupil safety as conditions are forecast to ease only from Friday.

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The Free State Road Incident Management System has issued a warning for possible flooding on the N5 highway near Sandspruit. Heavy rainfall is forecast over the weekend, prompting advice for drivers to take extra precautions. An orange level 5 alert for severe thunderstorms covers the Free State and North West provinces from March 6, 2026.

Police in region Mitt carried out speed checks during the traffic week of March 9-15. A total of 1,550 drivers were reported for speeding on roads with higher speed limits.

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