Transport Department concerned about drunk driving ahead of festive season

JOHANNESBURG - As motorists and holidaymakers prepare for the festive season, the Transport Department has issued a familiar warning against drinking and driving. 

The department said its annual call is often ignored, with alcohol-related road accidents claiming the lives of dozens of motorists and pedestrians, particularly during the festive season.

The launch of the 2024/25 road safety campaign was postponed to 5 December to coincide with the peak travel season. 

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Speaking from Tshwane on Sunday, Deputy Transport Minister Mkhuleko Hlengwa said the department will prioritise drunk driving this year. 

"What do remain fundamentally concerned about is the high consumption of alcohol which results in drinking and driving and drinking and walking. 45% of our fatalities on the roads are pedestrians and the lake goes to the high consumption of alcohol. It must sit as a national indictment to all of us that South Africa is number five in terms of the World Health Organization report around alcohol," said Hlengwa.

Hlengwa also indicated that there would be more boots on the ground to curb fatalities.