Issued by: Sasani Communications
1 April 1998
With the closure of schools in Gauteng, Northern Province, Mpumalanga and North West, Traffic authorities are bracing themselves for increased volumes on our main holiday routes.
The Arrive Alive campaign will be in full force during the Easter holidays, co-ordinating the forces of both provincial and local authorities. During expected peak traffic periods there will be an increased presence of traffic officers on major routes. Traffic offenders who endanger the lives of other road users will be prosecuted.
The traffic volumes are expected to increase with the closure of the schools this afternoon. The N3 (down to Durban) and the N4 (to Mpumalanga) are expected to carry the heaviest flow of the traffic, while the N1 (to the Cape) will also be busier than usual.
The second peak traffic period is expected on Friday, 3 April, with people in the commercial sector taking advantage of the Easter holidays.
During the Easter weekend, traffic is expected to increase dramatically on Thursday, 9 April, from 12:00 until Friday mid morning (10 April). "Past research has shown that most accidents occur during this period of the Easter Weekend and we urge drivers to be particularly cautious and alert and take regular stops," said Arrive Alive spokesperson. Very high traffic volumes are expected on the N1 north with Zionists travelling to Moria, north of Pietersburg, to celebrate Easter.
The final traffic peak will be on Monday, 13 April, when holiday-makers return for the opening of schools on Wednesday 15 April. This return could result in major delays due to traffic congestion and the Arrive Alive Information Centre urges driver patience and caution.
Perry Parirenyatwa, Director road traffic education and communication said "We urge all drivers to travel within the speed limits, even reducing speed in unfavourable weather or road conditions. Drivers must also plan rest stops every two hours or 200 kilometres to avoid becoming fatigued."
ISSUED BY: SASANI COMMUNICATIONS CONTACT PERSON: DESIREE POOE/SAMANTHA PRESBURY TELEPHONE No.: 784 2598 ON BEHALF OF: DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORT ARRIVE ALIVE INFORMATION CENTRE CONTACT PERSON: MARLEEN RONALD 012 309 3669