More than 690 people have perished in accidents on South African roads during the first three weeks of December, Transport Minister Fikile Mbalule said on Tuesday.
Mbalula said the figure was a 5.7 percent decline when compared to the same period in 2019.
However, this was “no reason to celebrate,” he added.
“One life lost is one life too many,” the minister said during a media briefing of the country’s traffic accidents statistics from 1 December to date.
According to Mbalula, law enforcement agencies would continue to be visible along the country’s roads to deter reckless drivers, especially those driving while under the influence of liquor during the festivities.
Meanwhile, South Africa’s busiest border post, Beitbridge that connects the country to Zimbabwe, has been overwhelmed with so much traffic from outbound travellers.
According to officials, traffic has backed up for as far as 12 km from the border’s entry point.
Beitbridge is a gateway to many African countries – with some travellers to Malawi claiming that they have been in the queue for over three days to cross – exposed to humidity and criminals.
High traffic volumes started on Sunday and there was no change on Tuesday, according to transport ministry officials, who appear unable to control the trucks and small vehicles heading northwards.
“We are from Jo’burg and we are going to Malawi. Nothing is moving. The roads are narrow and this is one of the busiest roads in Africa,” a Malawian motorist said.
Transport ministry spokesperson Matome Moremi-Tauetsoala said they were “aware of the pile up at the Beitbridge.”
“Our team from South African Police Service and traffic have restrategised their plans. They will put them into action soon,” Moremi-Tauetsoala said.
NM/jn/APA