Motorists warned to be careful amid the predicted heavy rains

Motorists warned to be careful amid the predicted heavy rains

By BRIAN KAJENGO

Predicted heavy rains in Mpumalanga and other parts of the country may affect driveability in most roads in the province and therefore Mpumalanga Community Safety, Security and Liaison MEC Vusi Shongwe has called on motorists to drive with great care so that they are not adversely affected.

Shongwe’s warning comes after the closure of R35 Road between Middelburg and Bethal. The road opened for traffic with only one lane working due to repairs following the destruction by the heavy rains over the weekend.

Crocodile Bridge in Nkomazi Municipality and the road between Tonga and Phiva closed because it is overflowing. The road between Driekoppies and Schoemansdal also been closed because Mlumati River is overflowing.

The MEC has further called on motorists to exercise extreme care and due diligence while driving amid ongoing rainy weather in the province.

“Motorists need to prioritise their own safety by among others ensuring that their wipers are working properly, maintain safe following distance and also ensuring that their tyres are in good conditions. Excessive speed in a wet weather can be fatal and therefore motorists need to take it easy on the road when it is raining,” the MEC said.

MEC Vusi Shongwe pleads with motorists to keep their headlights on when driving in order to enhance their visibility. He said that drivers also need to reduce speed and remain extremely alert in order to reach their destinations safely.

He has further warned communities to avoid crossing overflowing rivers and streams. Parents, the MEC said, also need to ensure their children are safe when they go schools during this rainy period. 

He has further called on law enforcement to clamp down on motorists who are not obeying traffic rules and regulations and are needlessly putting other road users’ lives in danger.

“Let us be more vigilant and be patient in order to avoid unnecessary accidents on our roads,” the MEC said. He has further advised motorists to verify weather condition for places they intended travelling to and to also allow extra time to complete their trips.

The rainy weather is expected to continue is expected to continue until Friday in Mpumalanga, KwaZulu Natal, Eastern Cape Limpopo and Gauteng provinces