Cape Town - The Western Cape Department of Transport and Public Works (DTPW) on Monday appealed to motorists travelling to the upcoming Hermanus Whale Festival to drive responsibly.
To make sure motorists abide, traffic and law enforcement officers from Overstrand, Cape Agulhas and Theewaterskloof will be conducting coordinated operations on various routes around Hermanus and the Overberg coast during the festival weekend from September 30 to October 2. Police officers would also assist.
DTPW spokesman Byron la Hoe said: “The region has a very high incidence of pedestrian fatalities. Motorists should be particularly alert when travelling past Grabouw along the N2.”
In support of joint law enforcement activities, DTPW road safety officers will be at the festival conducting safety talks, responding to road safety queries, exhibiting information, and distributing pamphlets.
La Hoe added that Danny Cat, the road safety mascot, was looking forward to playing with children and teaching them good safety habits.
“The seatbelt convincer, which simulates what happens in a crash, will show visitors the importance of wearing seatbelts at all times,” said la Hoe.
Traffic officers will be focusing on speeding, driving under the influence, distracted driving (using cell phones while driving), seatbelt compliance, and driver and vehicle fitness.
“We expect all road users to play their part by practising good road safety habits at all times. Please be alert, be considerate, and be especially careful around vulnerable road users – children, older people, cyclists and motorcyclists,” said la Hoe.
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African News Agency