Photo for illustration: The Witness
Traffic volumes across the country are expected to peak from Thursday as holidaymakers make their way to various destinations across the country.
Among the many routes that will see high traffic volumes is the N3 Toll Road that connects Johannesburg and Durban.
It is also considered to be one of the most strategic road links in southern Africa, conveying large volumes of freight trucks.
Thania Dhoogra, operations manager for the N3 Toll Concession (N3TC), said they will be monitoring the traffic volumes along the route.
“Peak traffic volumes on the N3 toll route are expected in a southbound direction towards KwaZulu-Natal from midday today, continuing into evening, as many travelers begin making their way to their holiday destinations.”
Dhoogra said all lanes will be open to traffic, and toll plazas are operating at full capacity.
“In preparation, N3TC reminds roads users to please plan ahead and prepare before departing on their journeys. Peak volumes as well as mixed of vehicle types on the route, place additional demands on drivers, law enforcement and emergency services.”
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“The presence of law enforcement and emergency services on the N3 toll route has been heightened this festive season.
“However, with stats showing that the majority of crashes recorded on the route in 2022, being due to driver ineptitude and negligence, many of which could be avoided, N3 appeals to motorists not to become another statistic,” Dhoogra said.
She has urged motorists to ensure that their vehicles are roadworthy, to refrain from speeding and maintain a safe following distances from other vehicles.
Minister of Health Dr Joe Phaahla said emergency personnel in all provinces have contingency plans in place, “which are aligned with Arrive Alive and the Road Safety Campaign led by the Department of Transport”.
Phaahla said teams are preparing to deal with a spike in motor vehicle accidents, pedestrian accidents, alcohol-related incidents, domestic abuse and gender-based violence, drownings, and gang violence.
“We have deployed strategic resources according to the needs and demands of each and every area across the country,” Phaahla said.
Resources included ambulances, rapid response units, aeromedical services, and disaster buses.
Additional reporting by Cheryl Kahla.
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