Call for careful driving in wet weather

The Eastern Cape Department of Transport is calling on road users to be extra vigilant on the roads this weekend. This, as the weather forecast for this weekend makes for dangerous driving conditions.

The steady rains in some parts of the province have resulted in several incidents, including one in which two lives were lost on the N2 near Bulurha just outside East London. A fully loaded minibus taxi lost control and overturned, killing two passengers on impact. Another 12 other people sustained minor injuries.

Wet and slippery conditions with poor visibility in some parts of the province have been cited as the contributing factor to the crashes reported thus far.

Transport MEC, Xolile Nqatha says traffic law enforcement officers will maintain high visibility to ensure that law and order is upheld.

“Our law enforcement officers will be strategically placed to ensure the safety of road users. We will be working very closely with all the rapid response teams, and we’ll remain on high alert for any challenges that may arise,” said Nqatha.

The department will also keep a close eye on the province’s mountain passes for any possible mudslides and/or rockfalls, calling on road users and communities to be patient and respect instructions should there be a need to close any roads.