The Western Cape has recorded 28 fatalities in 21 crashes between 1 and 7 December, with pedestrians once again emerging as the most vulnerable group on the province’s roads.
Of the 28 people who died, 12 were pedestrians, making them the single largest group affected. The remaining fatalities include 10 passengers, three drivers, two motorcyclists, and one cyclist.
Provincial Mobility MEC Isaac Sileku described the figures as deeply troubling, especially as festive season traffic volumes have not yet peaked.
“These numbers are extremely troubling, especially considering that the peak travel period has not even begun. Every life lost is a tragedy, and every family affected enters the festive season carrying pain instead of joy. Pedestrian safety remains one of our greatest concerns. We urge every road user, whether behind the wheel or walking alongside our roads, to exercise heightened caution. The mental and physical fitness of drivers who are undertaking long journeys is also of paramount importance to reducing the number of incidents,” said Sileku.
During the same period, Provincial Traffic Services conducted more than 200 integrated operations, including roadblocks, vehicle checkpoints and speed control interventions.
Over 33 000 vehicles were stopped and checked, resulting in just over 10 000 fines issued for offences relating to both driver and vehicle fitness.
Traffic officers also arrested 43 motorists for driving under the influence of alcohol, with authorities warning that drunk driving, speeding and unsafe pedestrian behaviour remain major contributors to serious and fatal crashes.
Chief Director of Traffic Management Maxine Bezuidenhout emphasised the need for greater responsibility on the roads
“We are deeply concerned about the recent increase in crashes on our roads. These incidents are preventable, and we urge all motorists to take responsibility,” said Bezuidenhout.
Photo: Supplied/ Western Cape Mobility Department
