KwaZulu-Natal is gearing up for a dramatic increase in traffic volumes this Easter weekend, with over 1,500 vehicles expected to pass through provincial tollgates every hour starting next Thursday.
In response, the provincial government has initiated a robust road safety campaign to manage the influx and protect road users. The campaign was officially launched on Friday by MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, Siboniso Duma, at the Mandeni Toll Plaza.
Duma announced the deployment of over 950 law enforcement officers, including 837 from the Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) and 120 from the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC). The additional RTMC officers will be drawn from Gauteng, Free State, and Mpumalanga and deployed to key areas such as Durban, Richards Bay, Port Shepstone, and Pietermaritzburg.
“Law enforcement will be highly visible across the province, and this reflects our unwavering commitment to protecting lives during this busy period,” said Duma.
Enhanced patrols will be conducted along major routes like the N2 and N3 highways, with special attention to high-risk areas such as the stretch between Key Ridge and Hammarsdale, known for frequent truck accidents. Duma also highlighted the significance of 24-hour traffic enforcement units, especially new satellite stations in the uMkhanyakude District.
Motorists can expect a zero-tolerance approach to offences including speeding, drunk driving, and the use of unroadworthy vehicles. Duma issued a stern warning: “Offenders will be arrested and may only apply for bail after April 21. Alcohol is a factor in 57.5% of road deaths nationwide — we are determined not to add to that figure.”
The campaign is bolstered by the Alufakwa Zero Tolerance initiative, which incorporates cutting-edge technology such as Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) and Crime Recognition Software in patrol vehicles. These tools will help identify and flag stolen, unlicensed, or unroadworthy vehicles, and allow officers to issue on-the-spot fines for outstanding warrants or unpaid penalties.
Recognising the religious significance of the Easter period, Duma appealed to faith-based organisations to ensure public transport vehicles used for church services and pilgrimages are roadworthy. An interfaith prayer service is scheduled for Saturday at eMaromeni Sports Field in Mandeni, following a tragic crash that claimed seven young lives.
Duma reaffirmed government’s continued investment in road infrastructure, including bridge construction, resurfacing projects, and pothole repairs aimed at improving road safety across the province.
“We are not only investing in infrastructure but in the lives of every road user,” Duma concluded.