As the Easter long weekend begins, national and provincial governments are intensifying road safety efforts through social media campaigns, including hashtags like #LiveBeyondEaster and #ArriveAlive, to promote responsible driving and warn against drink-driving, drug use, and reckless road behaviour.
KwaZulu-Natal remains South Africa’s second-deadliest province for road fatalities, driven by high traffic volumes, speeding, alcohol abuse, and reckless taxi operations. In response, the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) is deploying drones, speed cameras, and other advanced enforcement technologies on high-risk routes across KZN and beyond.
Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga has appealed for responsible road use, stressing that reckless and intoxicated driving will not be tolerated. Interfaith leaders and community figures have been called upon to encourage road safety and discourage alcohol abuse.
“We are once again at that time of year when people travel across provinces to be with loved ones. Sadly, Easter is also when we see too many lives lost to negligent driving, alcohol, fatigue, and speeding. We urge all South Africans: drive responsibly, obey the rules, and arrive alive,” Chikunga said.
KZN transport authorities expect the Mariannhill Toll Plaza near Durban to handle over 1,000 vehicles per hour, as holidaymakers, pilgrims, and tourists head to beaches, entertainment spots, and religious events. Chikunga and KZN MEC for Transport, Community Safety and Liaison Sipho Hlomuka are determined to avoid a repeat of the 200 deaths recorded during the 2024 festive season. The upcoming Freedom Day and May Day holidays add urgency to the campaign.
Public safety messages have been rolled out via radio, social media, and billboards, emphasising seatbelt use, speed limits, vehicle roadworthiness, and the importance of resting during long journeys.
MEC Hlomuka, speaking at a Durban road safety activation, warned of increased roadblocks and sobriety checks. He condemned corruption among law enforcement, particularly officers who accept bribes from drivers caught speeding or under the influence.
“Expect roadblocks, breathalyser checks, and arrests. Long-distance taxis and public transport operators will be closely monitored. We will not allow profits to come before people’s lives,” he said, reiterating a zero-tolerance policy and urging the public to report corruption.
The RTMC and Department of Transport are deploying over 25,000 traffic officers nationwide, focusing on accident-prone areas, highways, and provincial borders. Drones, automated number plate recognition, and mobile inspection units will be used to identify unroadworthy vehicles and reduce accidents.
Minister Chikunga extended condolences to families affected by road crashes, urging a shift in driver behaviour. “Every life matters. Every crash is one too many. Let us prioritise safety this Easter so we return home — not end up in a hospital or morgue.”
“If you drink and drive, you will be caught. There will be consequences,” she added, confirming that traffic and police officers will be conducting breath tests and vehicle inspections across the country.
While many social media users welcomed the increased visibility of law enforcement, others expressed concern about police corruption and poor road conditions. “The Minister’s message is powerful, but we also need better roads and honest traffic cops,” one user posted on X (formerly Twitter). Another wrote: “Sobriety checkpoints are welcome — but only if they’re lawful, not a shakedown for bribes.”
Motorists are encouraged to report reckless driving, unroadworthy vehicles, or bribery by calling the National Traffic Call Centre on 0861 400 800 or KZN Emergency Services on 10177 (or 112 from mobile phones).
