By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on the nation to observe Easter long weekend with care and consideration for families, communities affected by natural disasters and incidents of violent crime.
In addition, he wished South Africa’s diverse religious communities a prayerful and peaceful Easter, including the Muslim community who are approaching the mid-point of the Holy Month of Ramadan, as well as the Jewish community observing Passover.
Ramaphosa said, “as we travel around our beautiful country during this period, let us take good care of one another. Our roads aren’t dangerous; it’s our behaviour that’s dangerous: behaviour such as drinking and driving, overtaking on solid lines and blind rises in the road, not taking breaks when we are tired, or overloading vehicles with people or goods.
“We can all play our part by reporting risky behaviour or criminal activity, by moderating the way we socialise with alcohol, and by avoiding conflict within our families or circles of friends.”
The President’s call to observe the Easter long weekend responsibly is crucial in ensuring the safety and well-being of all South Africans during this festive period. It is hoped that his message will be heeded, and that the country can celebrate Easter in peace and harmony.
Meanwhile North West Premier, Kaobitsa Bushy Maape has made an appeal to road users and those who will be visiting the province to be vigilant and cautious on the roads.
“Our roads will be inundated and abuzz with high volumes of traffic. I would like to appeal to all road users to exercise caution, stick to the speed limit, take rest intervals, be tolerant towards each other on the road and desist from drinking while driving. Let’s work together with law enforcement authorities and ensure that we all arrive alive” said Maape.
The provincial department of Community Safety and Transport Management has already activated the Easter Weekend Plans which among others encapsulate a thorough monitoring of arterial routes such as N4, N12, N14 as well as N18. Priority will also be given to provincial roads as well as rural areas where there is a growing trend of accidents.
Western Cape MEC for Mobility Ricardo Mackenzie said the province usually experienced “a considerable increase in traffic volumes” at this time of year, requiring his department to be in high alert to avoid accidents.