Heavy traffic has been recorded on major roads across the country, as holidaymakers return from the festive holidays.
Authorities have urged motorists to exercise caution, as the weather service has warned that most parts of the country will continue to experience heavy rains, which might cause flooding and lead to slippery roads.
The warning comes as Transport Minister Barbara Creecy expressed concern about the deadly accidents recorded in mid-December, with KwaZulu-Natal, Western Cape, Eastern Cape, Limpopo and Gauteng accounting for 70% of road fatalities at the time.
Meanwhile, the Gauteng Traffic Police (GTP) has intensified law enforcement operations to ensure safe return of motorists utilising its roads.
The GTP said the operations are also aimed at ensuring road safety and reducing road crashes along the major routes in the province.
The police said it recorded high traffic on its major routes on Sunday, and expect the same on Monday, as holidaymakers return back to the province.
“Heavy traffic flows are expected on the N1 Pretoria to Polokwane, N4 Pretoria to Mpumalanga, N4 Pretoria to Rustenburg, R573 Pretoria to Mpumalanga, N12 Johannesburg to Mpumalanga, N3 Johannesburg to Durban, N1 Johannesburg to Bloemfontein, and N12 Johannesburg to Potchefstroom,” said GTP spokesperson, Sello Maremane.
In addition, Maremane urged motorists to obey the rules of the road, by observing overtaking traffic rules, not to overload their vehicles, and cautioned pedestrians not cross freeways, as it is illegal and extremely dangerous.
“The GTP, Gauteng Traffic Wardens and other Law Enforcement Agencies will be deployed to ensure the safety and security of all road users. Various enforcement operations will be conducted, including roadside checkpoints, vehicle and driver fitness inspections, speed enforcements and anti-drunk driving operations” warned Maremane.
