Massive roadblock on N1 as JMPD launches safety campaign

The campaign, by the Department of Transport, aims to continue their road safety campaign with a specific focus on scholar transport. 

“We are not going to allow unroadworthy vehicles taking our children to school. Then we will check for licences, and any driver with an indication of driving under the influence of alcohol will be arrested,” said Joburg metro police spokesperson Wayne Minnaar.

Deputy Minister of Transport Sindisiwe Chikunga, who was also at the roadblock, echoed these sentiments.

“We are here today to talk to our people about road safety, to thank them for adhering and complying, but also to enforce the law.

“We are here to ensure that life goes back to normal in a proper way, this road safety operations will continue and this is a 24 hour plus 365 days project,” said Chikuga.

She said the number of fatalities from the festive season are higher than the same period last year, but admitted the Covid-19 lockdown in the previous year may have contributed to the low number of fatalities then. 

Motorists who were visibly irritated after waiting hours in traffic to reach the roadblock were stopped, some searched, cars inspected and some given pamphlets and encouraged to vaccinate. 

Minnaar warned they will be increasing roadblocks throughout the week and month.