Authorities crack down as holidaymakers return

‘Zero tolerance’ on Gauteng roads: Authorities crack down as holidaymakers return

Zuko Komisa

Gauteng Traffic Police and partner agencies have launched high-visibility operations and roadblocks to manage the massive influx of returning holidaymakers.
Authorities are monitoring major routes including the N1, N3, N4, and N12 as traffic volumes peak on entries into Johannesburg and Pretoria.
Law enforcement will act decisively against speeding, drunk driving, and reckless behaviour to curb preventable fatalities and ensure road safety.

The Gauteng Traffic Police, in partnership with various law enforcement agencies, have announced an intensification of road safety operations as the festive season concludes.

With thousands of holidaymakers expected to return to the province this week, authorities are bracing for a significant surge in traffic volumes.

To manage the influx, police have deployed increased patrols and established strategic roadblocks. These high-visibility operations aim to deter reckless behaviour and significantly reduce the risk of road fatalities.

Motorists should expect heavy congestion and a heightened police presence on several key arteries leading into Gauteng:

N3: From KwaZulu-Natal
N1: Into Pretoria from Limpopo and from Bloemfontein towards Johannesburg
N4: From Emalahleni towards Pretoria
N12: From Potchefstroom towards Johannesburg

The Gauteng Department of Community Safety has warned that officers will act decisively against any form of lawlessness.

A zero-tolerance policy is in effect for the following offences:

Drunk driving and speeding
Reckless and negligent driving
Jaywalking (pedestrian safety)

“Many road tragedies are preventable,” the Department noted in a statement, while extending condolences to those who lost loved ones over the holidays.

All road users including motorists, passengers, and pedestrians are urged to exercise extreme caution to ensure a safe return for all.