Motorists are warned to be wary of stray livestock
We are aware that this is one of the busiest times on the N4 and everyone wants to get home quickly
HECTORSPTRUIT – Motorists making use of the N4 between Hectorspruit and Komatipoort are once again warned against stray cattle next to the road.
This is the second notice issued by the Komatipoort SAPS to motorists similar to the one released by TRAC N4 in November. Komatipoort SAPS spokesman, Const Natacia Mbuyane, has urged all motorists to be extra vigilant on this route during the festive season.
“We are aware that this is one of the busiest times on the N4 and everyone wants to get home quickly. However, we are asking drivers to be on the lookout for livestock along the road. There has been an increase in reports of cows roaming along the road,” explained Mbuyane.
In its previous media release TRAC said it was doing everything in its power to address the problem. Areas such as Hectorspruit, Matsulu, Bronkhorstspruit and Belfast, were identified as those with the highest incidents of livestock breaching the N4, which causes dangerous conditions and frustration to motorists.
As most of the 570-kilometre route is adjacent to farmlands, where fences are continuously being stolen, the situation is often beyond TRAC’s control.
However, as part of its commitment to improve road safety, TRAC has endeavoured for many years to bring the problem under control.
Not only has TRAC held numerous stakeholder meetings to educate communities on their responsibilities regarding this hazardous situation, it has also conducted specialised patrols and re-erected fences in some of the most dangerous areas.
People are warned not to damage these fences and road users are urged to report any activity of theft and damage on the N4 Toll Route.
This can be done through the 24-hour TRAC Help desk on 0800-87-22-64 or helpdesk@tracn4.co.za. The company also implores motorists to inform the help desk whenever they experience such a problem on this road.
