KZN Transport MEC highlights positive trends in road safety measures
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport is witnessing promising trends in road safety, according to MEC Siboniso Duma.
Speaking on the department’s recent partnership with the Vehicle Testing Association (VTA), Duma expressed optimism regarding the effects of the department’s initiatives aimed at reducing road accidents.
He stated: “I think we are doing a great job, which is why even the fruition of decreasing accidents on the road has been evident.”
In September last year, after a series of fatal scholar transport incidents and ahead of October Transport Month, Duma announced a partnership with the VTA.
The Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI) member represents the private vehicle testing stations involved in the testing and issuing of roadworthy certificates in terms of the National Road Traffic Act and SABS 10047.
They reached an agreement to collaborate on identifying and isolating vehicles operating without valid roadworthy certificates, and ensuring the arrest of those responsible for issuing fraudulent certificates.
Duma said that although it was still too early to detect that they are at 100%, they still have those processes; but so far, so good.
“We are able to track, because it is also critical that we detect in some instances. We also do random sampling, such as stopping buses and taxis at any time, to ensure we collect accurate data. Otherwise, in some instances, we can inspect a vehicle, take even the permits or the disc, but we find that the next day, that vehicle is still moving on the road. Not anymore because of this tracking device system.”
He also highlighted that their service providers, who are contracted with them, are expected to contribute positively by adhering to the financial agreement. The core understanding is that when the department issues payment, the money must first be allocated to ensuring service delivery is not compromised.
This includes guaranteeing that their buses or taxis are roadworthy. Furthermore, they must monitor their drivers to ensure they possess valid permits and that no documentation related to the vehicle or driver is expired, allowing for proper monitoring of the entire process.
“So far, so good, but we’re still going to commit ourselves to ensuring that even during the course of the year, during the course of the week, we’ll still monitor this process and update our public,” Duma said.
thobeka.ngema@inl.co.za