As the month of Ramadan begins, mosques across Cape Town are filling up for Taraweeh prayers. While this is a spiritually uplifting time for the Muslim community, it also brings increased traffic volumes and parking pressure in residential areas surrounding local masaajid.
Kevin Jacobs, Traffic Services spokesperson for the City of Cape Town, urged motorists to remain mindful of the rules of the road.
“The main thing is to stick to the rules of the road. If there’s a sign that prohibits parking, don’t park there. Our biggest issue is when driveways are obstructed. To be honest, our officers don’t want to go and write tickets at a mosque — we have bigger priorities. But when we receive complaints about obstructions or serious problems, we have to respond,” Jacobs explained.
He added that enforcement is generally complaint-driven and that officers aim to manage situations sensitively.
“I’m not saying we’re sending officers to monitor mosques. When we get a complaint, we attend to it and brief the officer to see how best to resolve the situation. If necessary, enforcement action must be taken. There are a few locations that regularly present challenges, and we do keep an eye on those areas.”
Jacobs noted that communication between traffic officials and mosque leadership has improved over time.
“We’ve built relationships. Some of the imams know us and will make announcements reminding congregants to park responsibly. Keeping those lines of communication open really helps.”
Residents and mussalees (worshippers) are encouraged to plan ahead, consider lift-sharing where possible, and ensure that emergency access routes and private driveways remain unobstructed.
Listen to the full interview below:
VOC News
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