Pretoria: As the Easter peak travel period approaches, the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) and traffic authorities have issued a reminder to public transport operators about the necessity of ensuring that both their vehicles and drivers meet all safety and regulatory standards.
According to South African Government News Agency, the RTMC emphasized the importance of having the appropriate permits for transporting passengers along specific routes. They advised operators to utilize trailers for carrying goods to prevent the mixing of goods and passengers. Additionally, the agency warned illegal operators against exploiting the increased demand for transportation, as law enforcement will be vigilant in enforcing compliance with road regulations.
The authorities have been active in impounding vehicles that violate the National Transport Act. Since the launch of the Easter campaign on March 20, 2025, a total of 1,155 vehicles have been impounded, causing significant inconvenience for passengers and financial burdens on vehicle owners who must pay hefty fines to retrieve their vehicles.
The RTMC reported that the highest number of impounded vehicles were in Mpumalanga, where 792 vehicles were removed from the roads. Other regions followed, with Limpopo seeing 88 vehicles impounded, Western Cape 87, Gauteng 78, North West 39, KwaZulu Natal 37, Free State 31, and Eastern Cape 3. The Northern Cape has not yet seen any vehicles impounded.
Traffic volumes are anticipated to rise significantly on Thursday afternoon and Friday morning as travelers set out for places of worship and holiday destinations. Monday is also expected to see heavy traffic.
Motorists are advised to anticipate increased congestion on several key routes, including the N1 from Gauteng to Limpopo, N1 from Gauteng to Free State, N2 in KwaZulu Natal to Eastern Cape, N3 from Gauteng to KwaZulu Natal, N4 from Gauteng to Mpumalanga, N4 from Gauteng to North West, R61 from Western Cape to Eastern Cape, and the N2 from Western Cape to Eastern Cape.
To support drivers on these long journeys, rest stops will be available at Sasol filling stations along these routes, offering a chance for drivers to rest and prevent fatigue. The RTMC has also advised motorists to check weather forecasts and avoid driving in severe conditions. Vehicles should be equipped with functional wipers, and safety-critical components such as brakes, tires, and lights must be in good working order. Pedestrians are also urged to avoid crossing busy roads to enhance road safety.