The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) says more than 90 motorists were arrested and 5 626 traffic fines issued on the first day of South Africa’s national festive season road safety campaign.
Authorities have warned that the coming weeks are expected to be particularly challenging as traffic volumes rise and weather conditions worsen.
According to the RTMC, arrests on 1 December included motorists found driving under the influence of alcohol, speeding, and engaging in reckless or negligent driving.
Officials expressed concern that over a third of those arrested had outstanding warrants linked to unpaid traffic fines.
Motorists are urged to check and settle any outstanding fines before embarking on holiday travel.
It is revealed that data from the National Traffic Information System (NaTIS) shows that South Africa’s registered vehicle population rose from 13 613 451 in September to 13 646 029 in October.
Gauteng recorded the highest increase and now has 5.5 million registered vehicles, followed by the Western Cape with 2.2 million, and KwaZulu-Natal with 1.8 million.
Only Mpumalanga experienced a slight decrease, with 638 fewer vehicles registered.
Authorities warn that the growing vehicle population is likely to increase congestion during peak travel periods.
Travellers planning long-distance trips are advised to avoid night-time driving, as more crashes tend to occur after sunset.
Officials also cautioned that recent heavy rains have weakened road surfaces in several areas.
“Travel must take place when visibility is clear to avoid possible potholes that can damage vehicles and dampen the festive season spirit,” the RTMC said.
Transport Minister Barbara Creecy also launched the 2025/2026 Festive Season Road Safety Campaign, calling for urgent action to reduce fatalities as South Africans begin holiday travel.
The campaign follows several deadly public transport crashes in recent months, including major incidents in Limpopo in October and the Free State in November, which have underscored persistent safety risks on the country’s roads
With traffic volumes expected to surge ahead of Christmas and New Year, road safety operations will be intensified in high-risk areas nationwide.
“Drivers, pedestrians and passengers make important choices on the roads every day. When we make the right choices, we arrive alive,” Creecy said.
“Our campaign is aimed at ensuring that each one of us makes those correct choices so we can enjoy the festive season and return home safely in January. To do this, we all have to play our part and act responsibly.”
Authorities are calling on both motorists and pedestrians to comply with traffic laws, emphasising that responsible behaviour is critical to preventing further loss of life during the festive period.
Saturday Star