RTMC deploys 17 000 traffic officers over festive season
The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) will deploy
over 17 000 traffic police officers across the country as motorists make their
way to their various holiday destinations.
RTMC spokesperson Simon Zwane says they will be on high alert and officers will show zero tolerance this coming long weekend.
"We are aware that traffic is starting to pick up on the road and we are concerned over the high number of people who have died on the roads," says Zwane.
On Thursday, Minister of Transport Blade Nzimande and RTMC revealed that a total of 767 people have died on the country's roads since December 1.
This means the death toll so far has increased by 16% increase compared to the same time last year.
Zwane adds the traffic management unit is also concerned over motorists who are simply disregarding the rules of the road.
"We are going out in full force to ensure that we reduce the number of fatalists and make the roads safer for obedient motorists."
Zwane says in Gauteng, they will be rolling out new breathalyser technology.
"They will pick up those are drunk and driving under the influence of alcohol, and that will speed up the prosecuting of these cases."