Following the increase in the number of unauthorised people controlling traffic at intersections where there are malfunctioning traffic lights, JMPD has asked motorists to refrain from rewarding the action.
Spokesperson Xolani Fihla said that the challenge with unauthorised people controlling traffic is that if an accident were to happen, the city would not be liable for any damages incurred. The city can only be liable if traffic is controlled by JMPD officers or authorised officials.
Chris Phiri is one of many people who saw an opportunity to help and make quick cash by controlling traffic. He and his friends direct traffic at the intersection of Malibongwe and President Foucé drives.
He said that he helps motorists mostly during peak hours to direct traffic. “If there is traffic congestion we help people get to work in time, we help them to avoid accidents and theft (smash and grabs).”
Phiri used to wash car windscreens at the traffic lights. He claimed that motorist do obey when he is controlling traffic because they know him and they also know that he is doing a good job.
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Some of the motorist also show appreciation and support by giving him money and food.
Sanele Nkosi told Randburg Sun that the small amount of money he gets from controlling traffic helps him put food on the table. “This job helps us push through life without having to do crime. It is hard out here, there are no jobs in this country so we do what we can to see the next day.”
However, the JMPD discouraged motorists from giving these informal pointsmen money as an incentive to control traffic.
“This encourages them to continue, and even go to the extent of tampering with traffic lights and controller boxes to make money. It further endangers the lives of these individuals as they may be run over by vehicles,” said Fihla.
He explained that to alleviate traffic congestion during peak hours, a directive was issued that all JMPD officers must take up point duty during peak hours between between 06:00–09:00 in the morning and 15:00–18:00 in the afternoon.
“Officers can not be at every corner and every intersection, so with the assistance of Traffic Free Flow sponsored by Outsurance main arterials, heavily congested and major routes are prioritised.”
Informal pointsman Itumeleng Nyaluku hopes that the government can help assist them with training so that they can get job opportunities and change their lives. “We are risking our lives for any little money we can get. We know the risk; we can die but there is nothing we can do. I would love if we can be taken for more training and be given a chance to do this job.”
Fihla confirmed that nothing has yet been formalised on how to either train or integrate these individuals in the city.
Our readers weigh in on Facebook:
Lola Robbertze: I don’t agree. They are doing a much better job than the traffic control or JMPD.
Allen Meiring: I have absolutely no problem with civilians helping out due to failed service delivery.
Nicky Asken: They are doing a great job.
Elton Gregory Dukhi: Those guys who help out deserve a Bells.
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