250 drunk drivers arrested; Gauteng authorities worried about the increase in pedestrian fatalities

The Gauteng Department of Community Safety issued a statement where they state that the Gauteng Law Enforcement Agencies have noted with concern the growing number of road fatalities involving pedestrians during the Easter weekend. Despite the heightened law enforcement activities which are carried out across the province, Gauteng roads continue to experience a high number of fatal crashes which result in pedestrians losing their lives.

Preliminary information shows that 70 per cent of the fatalities involve pedestrians especially in municipal areas. Most of the fatalities are compounded by pedestrians walking the streets late at night, drinking especially at places of entertainment such as shebeens and taverns. Drink and driving has also contributed significantly to the rise in road fatalities as 250 drivers have been arrested so far in Gauteng with the majority perpetrators found in Johannesburg.

“Despite all efforts to ensure the reduction of road accidents the province has to date recorded an alarming rate of 70 % pedestrian fatalities this Easter weekend. We remain concerned as law enforcement authorities as one death is one too many.

I commend the role played by Law Enforcement Agencies as well as all transport stakeholders who continue to work tirelessly throughout this busy period to ensure compliance with the rules of the road. I urge them to continue with resilient implementation of the law enforcement across the clock.

I would like to extend condolences to the families and friends who lost their loved ones and wish a speedy recovery to all those who are receiving medical treatment due to injuries sustained in various crashes this Easter season,” said MEC Sizakele Nkosi-Malobane.