Provincial authorities have expressed grave concern over a sharp rise in road fatalities this festive season, with human behavior cited as the primary cause of the deadly trend.
According to official figures, 143 people lost their lives on Mpumalanga’s roads between December 1 and January 3. This represents a significant increase of 21 deaths compared to the same period last year.
The news comes as traffic volumes surged on major routes, including the crucial N4 toll road connecting Mpumalanga, Gauteng, and Mozambique. On the N4, a steady stream of holidaymakers and workers returned home after the holidays, with many reporting generally smooth travel conditions.
Authorities have maintained a heightened security presence across the province in response. Multiple roadblocks have been set up along busy corridors to check vehicle roadworthiness and regulatory compliance. Operations have resulted in the impounding of unroadworthy vehicles and the issuance of fines to non-compliant motorists.
In an effort to promote safety, dedicated rest stations were also established. At these stops, drivers and passengers, particularly those in taxis, could rest and receive educational briefings on road rules. One passenger recounted being advised that drivers “must not over speed over 100, 120… must go less than 110.” Another motorist acknowledged that while roadblocks sometimes cause delays, they serve a vital purpose in checking vehicles, noting “there is a lot of cars that they are driving nonsense here.”
Despite these interventions, officials are alarmed by the climbing death toll. A provincial spokesperson directly attributed the “staggering numbers” to driver misconduct.
“This year is worse,” the spokesperson stated. “We don’t understand why we’ll have 143 fatalities in the province… It is a concern to me, and when I got a briefing from the department, it is shocking.”
The spokesperson dismissed initial theories that weather, potholes, or tire bursts were to blame, concluding the cause is “manmade.”
“In the main… we realize that no, it is not about all these things. It’s just manmade: wrong overtaking, drivers are not obeying the rules of the road regulations,” the official said. “Drivers they overtake at barrier lines. Drivers they are driving at a very high speed.”
Enforcement data underscores the point. Since the start of the festive season, 33 people have been arrested for speeding in the province alone.
As the return journey continues, authorities remain on high alert, urging all road users to exercise caution and obey traffic laws to prevent further loss of life.