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The reduction in road accident deaths and serious crashes on Eastern Cape roads during the current festive season is a meaningful and welcome development at a time when far too many families have come to associate this period with loss and grief.
Fewer lives lost on our roads represent progress that deserves recognition, particularly in a province that has historically borne one of the highest road fatality burdens in the country.
The drop from 219 deaths last festive season to 153 this year, alongside a significant reduction in serious crashes, translates into real human relief and fewer long-term consequences for already overstretched households and health services.
The Democratic Alliance acknowledges that focused enforcement against drunk driving and improved compliance by the majority of road users have played an essential role in this outcome.
More than 1,300 arrests for driving under the influence send a clear signal that reckless behaviour will not be tolerated, and responsible motorists, including those in the public transport sector, have shown that safer roads are achievable.
At the same time, this improvement must be treated as a foundation rather than a finish line. The festive season is not yet over, and the period leading up to school reopening remains a high-risk window. Any loss of life on our roads is one too many, and complacency would undo the gains we’ve made.
The DA believes that sustained enforcement, consistent visibility of traffic officers, and a firm focus on roadworthiness, particularly in the public transport sector, are essential to locking in these gains beyond the festive period.
Short-term operations must be translated into year-round discipline, supported by proper resourcing and transparent reporting of road safety outcomes.
Safer roads mean safer communities, lower pressure on emergency and health services, and greater confidence for people who rely on public and private transport every day.
The people of the Eastern Cape deserve a transport system that prioritises life, responsibility, and accountability, not only during holidays but throughout the year.