Northern Cape road block stops faulty cars

A roadblock in the Northern Cape stopped 958 cars over the weekend and found just one overloaded truck but issued 75 summonses for unroadworthy vehicles or unlicenced drivers. Image: Ally on Cars

The Department of Transport, Safety and Liaison said during the two operations which were done on the N1 and N12, about 958 cars were stopped and checked, 75 summonses were issued because vehicles were not roadworthy or drivers were not licenced.

The department said the operation was aimed at increasing road safety during Transport Month.

"Of the 85 trucks that were weighed during the operations, only one was overloaded which is encouraging," the department said.

The department said the roadblock, called Operation Basadi, was led by 70 women and was supported by the department's MEC Martha Bartlett and Head of Department, Steven Jonkers.

The operation was undertaken in collaboration with the South African Police Services (SAPS) and a number of other government departments and traffic officials from local municipalities.

Cynthia Moeti of Law Enforcement from the Transport Department said it was a fruitful operation.

"We checked for the general roadworthiness of the vehicle and driver fitness and also emphasised road safety because as much as we want people to comply, we also want to educate and encourage them to keep safe on the roads," she said.

The department encouraged people to keep seat-belts fastened, refrain from speeding and comply with general road safety rules.

"Road safety is everyone's responsibility and it's only by working together that we can achieve safer roads for everyone," the department said.