Lerato Kubeka
October
marks the annual celebration of Transport Month in South Africa, a campaign
launched in 2005 during the Transport Legotla to spotlight the vital role the
transport sector plays in the country’s socio-economic development. This
initiative emphasises the need for a collaborative approach between government,
civil society, and businesses to ensure that South Africa’s transport system is
safe, accessible, affordable, and reliable. The focus of Transport Month is to
promote a safer and more efficient transport environment while underscoring its
economic and social impact.
Throughout
October, various road safety campaigns are organised across the country to
promote awareness and responsible transport practices. In particular, the
Gauteng Department of Community Safety takes a leading role in ensuring that
road safety remains a top priority during this month. The department’s efforts
include increasing public education on road safety, promoting the benefits of
public transport, and engaging with communities on transport-related issues.
These efforts form part of a broader strategy to reduce road fatalities and
improve compliance with transport regulations.
Transport
Month is a significant platform for the Department to reach out to communities
and promote road safety measures that will protect lives and contribute to a
more sustainable transport system. Our campaigns are designed to encourage
safer travel behaviour, increase public transport usage, and promote adherence
to road safety regulations.
Key initiatives driven by the Gauteng Department of Community Safety during
Transport Month include enhanced road safety campaigns targeting pedestrians
and other vulnerable road users, increased visibility of law enforcement
officers to discourage reckless driving, and stakeholder collaboration to
ensure a coordinated approach to transport safety.
Community
engagement remains a cornerstone of the department’s strategy. Through open
discussions, feedback is gathered to address transport-related concerns and
encourage ongoing participation in road safety initiatives. Public transport
use is also promoted as a cost-effective and environmentally sustainable
alternative to private vehicle usage, aligning with the broader goals of
reducing carbon emissions and supporting eco-friendly travel.
A core
objective for the department is the reduction of road fatalities in Gauteng,
particularly through ensuring compliance with the National Road Traffic Act and
the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (AARTO). Road users
are urged to adhere to safety regulations and exercise caution to ensure the
well-being of all who share the road.
Transport
Month is not only a reminder of the importance of safe and sustainable
transportation but also a call to action for civilians to adopt more
eco-friendly travel habits that contribute to the economic growth and
environmental sustainability of the country. By investing in a stronger, more
integrated public transport system, South Africa can ensure that its transport
sector continues to be a driving force for development and employment creation.
As
Transport Month 2024 unfolds, the Gauteng Department of Community Safety together
with other Law Enforcement Agencies, remains committed to making the province’s
roads safer for all who use them.