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Driving Towards a Safer Christmas: Limpopo Targets Overloaded Vehicles This Festive Season
As the festive season ushers in increased travel across South Africa, the Limpopo Department of Transport and Community Safety is intensifying efforts to combat overloaded vehicles—a persistent threat to road safety.
Provincial spokesperson Tidimalo Chuene emphasized the department’s focus on overloaded public transport vehicles and light delivery vehicles towing heavily loaded trailers, commonly referred to as “malaisha.” These vehicles are prevalent along the N1 route, spanning from Pienaarsrivier in the Waterberg District to the Beitbridge border post in the Vhembe District.
“Overloaded vehicles are a significant hazard. They increase the risk of tyre bursts, brake failures, and major accidents. Additionally, overloading compromises a vehicle’s stability, handling, and stopping power, putting everyone on the road at risk,” said Chuene.
Robust Monitoring Systems
To address this issue, the department operates seven strategically located traffic control centres throughout the province. These centres are stationed in:
- Waterberg District: Mantsole, Zebediela, and Groblersbrug
- Capricorn District: Polokwane
- Vhembe District: Musina (Beitbridge)
- Mopani District: Mooketsi
- Sekhukhune District: Rathoke
Since the beginning of December, 1,449 vehicles have been screened and penalized for overloading passengers and goods. Chuene highlighted that vehicles found exceeding load limits are directed to adjust their loads before resuming their journeys.
The department is urging all motorists and transport operators to prioritize safety this festive season.
“Overloading endangers lives. By adhering to loading regulations and driving responsibly, we can collectively work towards safer roads. Let’s aim for zero road deaths,” Chuene added.
This proactive approach underscores Limpopo’s commitment to reducing road fatalities, particularly during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.
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