THE Inkatha Freedom Party is concerned about the number of fatalities in recent accidents in KwaZulu-Natal where more than 20 people, including a 10-month-old baby were killed in 14 road crashes since the start of the recent long weekend.
We are deeply saddened by the tragic death of people including seven members of the same family who died when their Toyota Venture plunged into the waters of Imvutshane Dam in KwaMaphumulo between KwaDukuza and Greytown.
We are deeply disappointed and saddened that‚ despite various road safety measures and legislative interventions‚ road accident statistics remain stubbornly high.
On behalf of our leader, His Excellency Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, MP, I extend my heartfelt condolences to families of the deceased. I also extend my sympathy to the KZN department of transport because this turned to undermine all their efforts to end road carnages and reduce them into a department of mass funerals.
We call on all law enforcement agencies to increase visibility and maintain roadside inspections to help monitor motorists and reduce accidents.
The IFP calls for tough action against those found to be in violation of traffic laws. Government needs to be tough.
This thing of issuing fines when traffic officers come across unroadworthy vehicles is not working.
They must consider impounding them because if they do not, they will be back on the road the following day.
We urge the KZN MEC of Transport, Hon Mxolisi Kaunda, to do a thorough assessment of the Imvutshane road and ensure that railings or high walls in the bridge are installed without any further delay.
Hon Steven Moodley MPL
IFP KZN provincial spokesperson on Transport
