Free State Provincial Launch Easter Road Safety Campaign

Photo: Free State traffic law enforcements

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By: Neo Ntsele

The Free State Province, under the leadership of Premier Mxolisi Dukwana and alongside MEC of Community Safety Roads and Transport Maqueen Letsoha-Mathae, spearheaded the Easter Road Safety Campaign.

The theme of this year's launch, "Fihla o Phela," underscores the imperative of prioritizing safety and responsible behavior on our roads.

This launch, held on the perilous N8 road between Bloemfontein and Botshabelo, marks a pivotal moment in our ongoing commitment to combatting road accidents and fatalities, especially during the Easter weekend a time of heightened travel and risk.

The N8 road has tragically witnessed countless accidents, claiming numerous lives in years past, necessitating urgent and enhanced road safety measures.

Acknowledging its strategic role as a central transit corridor for travelers journeying across the nation, the Free State Province places paramount importance on safeguarding the lives of all road users.

As part of its unwavering dedication to enhancing infrastructure, the province has embarked on a comprehensive Roads Infrastructure Program, investing 1.6 billion rand in the current fiscal year.

The initiative has resulted in the construction, rehabilitation, and expansion of crucial road networks across the province.

The Easter Road Safety Campaign is just one facet of our multifaceted approach to promoting responsible road usage and mitigating accidents.

Remarkably, the province achieved the lowest road fatalities nationwide during the previous festive season, with a notable 27% decline in road deaths compared to the previous year, a testament to the efficacy of such campaigns.

The economic benefits of investing in mega road infrastructure projects are profound, contributing to overall development, job creation, and ensuring safer travel conditions for motorists.

Community Safety Roads and Transport has thus far handed over twelve (12) road projects for upgrading.

The roads construction programme has generated 3,990 jobs in the current financial year, marking significant progress in alleviating poverty and combating unemployment.

Premier Mxolisi Dukwana reiterated the critical importance of responsible road use, urging motorists to remain vigilant, ensure their vehicles are roadworthy, and demonstrate consideration for fellow road users. He emphasized,

"As we embark on this Easter Road Safety Campaign, let us remember that safety is a collective responsibility. Through diligent adherence to traffic regulations and mutual respect for fellow road users, we can collectively ensure safer roads for all," said Dukwana.

The Premier further implored the Department of Community Safety Roads and Transport to implement a comprehensive training program for professional drivers tasked with transporting people and goods across the country.

The Free State Provincial Government remains steadfast in fostering a culture of road safety and urges all citizens to actively contribute to ensuring a safe and enjoyable travel experience for everyone.

Thabang Mashiya, representing the South African Breweries (SAB), a valued partner of the Department of Community Safety Roads and Transport, announced the generous donation of two state-of-the-art Mobile Alcohol Evidence Centres to bolster government efforts in promoting responsible road usage.

These centres will enable law enforcement to effectively enforce regulations and curb drunk driving.

SAB's Sharp initiative has successfully trained 500 Traffic Officials nationwide, with 200 coming from the Free State.