ERMELO – In light of the recent deaths of two pedestrians, one would assume that other pedestrians would exercise greater caution when crossing over or walking in the streets.
Over the years, Highvelder has received numerous complaints about Gert Sibande College’s students who, to their own detriment, carelessly walk in groups in the lanes of oncoming traffic.
This leaves motorists with only two options: swerve or brake.
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Although some may argue that the town’s crumbling sidewalks are also treacherous, others would assert that its a safer option than standing in the way of oncoming vehicles, of which the result can potentially be fatal.
“Students should be mindful that motorists also have to contend with the numerous potholes in town,” a resident who daily commutes between her home in West Street and work told Highvelder.
“Walking is an easy, inexpensive and healthy way for these students to get to campus, but there’s a thing called common courtesy and common sense, which these students seem to be lacking.”
She claims that she has had a few close calls with students as a result of oncoming traffic and her inability to immediately swerve out of the way.
“They then shout and gesture at you though it’s you who’s in the wrong,” she stated.
Another resident said, “Hundreds of GS students use West and President Fouche streets three times daily. They walk where they want, litter and are noisy!”
Highvelder sent queries to GS College’s spokesperson, Oscar Kubeka, to get a sense of the difficulties the students perhaps face and whether there are ways to address the issue and ensure the safety of students and motorists alike.
He has yet to respond.
Highvelder also reached out to one of the students, make sure to read the complete article in the Highvelder.
