Month-end weekends have become synonymous with increased movement of people and higher traffic volumes on major routes.
This weekend, volumes are expected to spike as football supporters travel from across the province to Johannesburg for the Soweto Derby between Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs, while political parties criss-cross the province canvassing ahead of the Local Government Elections on 4 November 2026.
Many people will also gather for weddings and other social activities. In the past, such festivities have led to increased drinking and driving, resulting in fatal crashes.
It is in this context that Mpumalanga MEC for Community Safety, Security and Liaison, Mr. Jackie Macie, has called on motorists to use the road responsibly and avoid drinking and driving. He also urged drivers ferrying football supporters to Gauteng and those transporting political party supporters to rallies to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy.
He implored motorists to obey the rules of the road and to rest sufficiently after every two hours or 200 kilometres of driving.
"Every driver on the road this weekend must obey the rules and not drive recklessly. As we wrap up this year's October Transport Month (OTM), we will continue to push for safer and more responsible road user behaviour. Our law enforcement will show zero tolerance to reckless driver behaviour," said MEC Macie.
The MEC also indicated that law enforcement officers and emergency personnel will be on high alert to enforce the law and respond to any emerging situation. Increased visibility will be on major routes such as the N4, N2, N3, N11, N17, R573, R40, R23 and R568, among others.
Motorists are further advised to be mindful of changing weather patterns and ongoing roadworks across the province.
ENDS...
Issued by Mpumalanga Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison