Gauteng launches Easter safety campaign to tackle road deaths and crime! The Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport has officially launched its annual Easter Road Safety Campaign, with a renewed focus on tackling motor-related crimes and reducing road fatalities across the province. The campaign was launched on Monday on the N12 highway near Slovo Park—a location known for high pedestrian fatalities—by MEC for Roads and Transport Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, and the MMC for Public Safety.
Addressing Increased Easter Road Traffic
The launch comes at a crucial time, as the Easter holiday period typically sees a significant increase in traffic volumes. Thousands of South Africans take to the roads to visit family, attend religious gatherings, or head to popular holiday destinations. Unfortunately, this surge in travel often leads to a spike in traffic accidents, injuries, and fatalities.
Easter safety campaign
Diale-Tlabela explained that the campaign is part of a broader strategy to reduce road deaths and raise public awareness about responsible road usage.
“The Easter season is always a high-risk time on our roads. We are activating this campaign to educate motorists and pedestrians alike on the dangers of drinking and driving, speeding, and fatigue,” she said.
Focus on Slovo Park: A High-Risk Area
Slovo Park, the site of the campaign launch, has been identified as one of Gauteng’s pedestrian danger zones. Many residents cross the busy N12 freeway on foot—often at night and under the influence of alcohol—placing themselves at serious risk.
“We are here because this is one of the areas where we have a high rate of pedestrian fatalities. People here cross the freeway at night when they are drunk,” Diale-Tlabela said. “We are creating awareness to prevent further tragedies.”
In response to residents’ past demands for safer crossing infrastructure, the government constructed a pedestrian bridge in the area. However, the MEC noted that despite the bridge being available, it is underused—largely due to concerns about crime around the structure.
“People requested that the government build a bridge. We built the bridge, but they are still not using it because of crime. That’s why we are launching an integrated approach to dealing with crime in our province starting tomorrow [Tuesday],” she added.
Integrated Approach to Road Safety and Crime
Premier Panyaza Lesufi also emphasized the need for a united front to combat the dual threat of road accidents and urban crime, particularly in hotspots like Slovo Park. The integrated approach he referenced includes a collaboration between law enforcement agencies, community stakeholders, and other provincial departments to ensure not only road safety but also improved public security.
“We cannot have lives lost on our roads because people are afraid to use safe infrastructure. Crime must not stand in the way of safety,” Lesufi said during the launch.
The strategy includes increased police visibility, roadblocks, random breathalyzer tests, and real-time traffic monitoring through Gauteng’s smart surveillance systems. Authorities also aim to work closely with communities to encourage responsible behavior from both drivers and pedestrians.
A Call for Vigilance and Community Responsibility
The MEC urged all road users to take personal responsibility over the Easter weekend and to prioritize safety. She reminded drivers to rest adequately, obey speed limits, and avoid driving under the influence.
“Our campaign is not just about enforcement. It’s about creating a culture of care, caution, and responsibility on our roads,” Diale-Tlabela said.
The Easter Road Safety Campaign will run throughout the holiday season and includes public engagement events, safety activations in high-risk zones, and collaborative efforts with local law enforcement to maintain order and reduce road-related crime.