30 lives lost in a week as Western Cape raises concern over road safety

The Western Cape Government’s Mobility Department has noted a concerning number of crashes and fatalities, particularly among pedestrians, on the country’s roads this year.

Twenty-eight incidents were recorded between 15 and 21 December, resulting in 30 lives lost.

Western Cape Provincial Minister of Mobility, Isaac Sileku, says this is mainly due to human behaviour, such as reckless driving and pedestrians being under the influence of alcohol.

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While there was a 20% decrease in pedestrian fatalities this year, compared to last year, the numbers are still alarming.

“People speed without even considering pedestrians. And in some areas it is very dark.”

He notes the need for harsher consequences for repeat offenders, and the importance of educating the public on safety measures.

While the province has increased its road safety efforts, including the implementation of integrated roadblocks and the issuance of 10,000 fines, there has been a concerning lack of progress in changing driver behaviour.

“We need to educate, and everybody has a role to play,” says Sileku.

To listen to Isaac Sileku in conversation with CapeTalk’s Clarence Ford, click the audio player below: