Member MC for Transport in the City of Joburg Cllr Kenny Kunene did a walkabout in the streets of Roodepoort, Region C, on Wednesday, 05 April 2023 in the company of Acting Regional Director Ntswaki Hlaba and other officials. The event was to encourage road users and commuters to be cautious when travelling, crossing the roads, to always obey the rules of the road while respecting vehicles driving on the road especially as we approach Easter holidays. Hlaba urged commuters to reduce luggage on trailers and drivers to avoid overtaking while pulling the trailers.
“Commuters, please work together with the long-distance drivers in reducing road accidents. Make sure you get enough rest.”
MMC Kunene handed out road safety pamphlets to commuters in and out of taxis while interacting with the taxi drivers. He emphasised on caring and having patience for each other as well as looking after the City’s infrastructure and stopping vandalism.
“Today it is about awareness as research tells us that some people continue driving recklessly. We are here to remind everyone that our lives are important and as we drive, we not only drive our vehicles but other vehicles around us including pedestrians.
History tells us that during Easter long weekend, we get high number of accidents. Unfortunately, taxi drivers are part of those numbers. We are talking to all the drivers, including commuters to raise awareness.
“One of the important things we need to remember is to have patience with each other on the roads. We must also take responsibility for our vehicles, especially smooth tyres and avoid overload of passengers. Let us also encourage our JMPD not take bribes for our unroadworthy vehicles,” said MMC Kunene.
Mxolisi Xabanisa of the Long Distance Taxi Association said its members have over a decade maintained zero fatalities incidents in Roodepoort.
“We always strive for zero fatalities especially during Easter long weekend and Christmas holidays by ensuring our taxis are roadworthy, things like tyres, smoking vehicles, working lights and other basics are working so we do not risk lives of our commuters. It is important for us to adhere to safety regulations, after all is our lives that are at risk, we need to save lives,” said Xabanisa.
MMC Kunene urged drivers to refrain from chatting on the phone or watching WhatsApp videos while driving. He said they should park on the side of the road to attend to the phone, as phone distractions can result to serious fatalities. “To avoid road rage but stay vigilant on the road.”
“JMPD cameras all over the City. They will impound your unroadworthy vehicles and your license if you don’t comply. Wear seat belts and ensure your passengers paid you to drive them safely to their destinations. Let us work together, come past Easter holidays, let us all be proud of ourselves as Joburg citizens in reducing road fatalities,” said MMC Kunene.
Written by Thembelihle Radebe
06/04/2023