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Aware.org and JMPD Partnership Enhances Road Safety, Cuts Drunk Driving
Johannesburg’s road safety efforts have been significantly boosted through a joint initiative focused on combating driving under the influence (DUI). This program, led by the Association for Alcohol Responsibility and Education (Aware.org) and the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD), is making substantial progress.
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A recent DUI operation held on a busy Alexandra road saw representatives from both organisations working closely. Visible and frequent DUI operations deter drinking and driving while also allowing law enforcement to ensure vehicle roadworthiness and prevent the transport of illegal items.
Carmen Mohapi, Managing Director of Aware.org, expressed the organisation’s commitment to discouraging drinking and driving and promoting the safety of pedestrians and all road users. Mohapi noted aligning these operations with Aware.org’s mission to promote responsible alcohol use.
JMPD Superintendent Mike Botolo highlighted the impact of roadblocks and advanced equipment like hand breathalysers and evidential breath alcohol testing (EBAT) machines in reducing drunk driving incidents. He shared that drunk driving cases have significantly decreased since the introduction of EBAT machines, indicating the positive influence of partnerships with organisations like Aware.org.
Superintendent Botolo also emphasised the importance of education and awareness programs before and after arrests to prevent repeat drunk driving offences. Collaborating with the South African Police Service (SAPS), JMPD executes DUI operations and conducts thorough vehicle and driver checks during roadblocks.
Jordi Borrut, Chairman of Aware.org, stressed the necessity of roadblocks in raising awareness of drunk driving risks. The partnership with JMPD extends beyond enforcement, with public education and awareness campaigns to encourage responsible drinking behaviour.
Road safety remains a top priority for authorities, and the collaboration between JMPD and Aware.org provides a comprehensive approach. Beyond law enforcement, these roadblocks act as deterrents, discouraging reckless decisions and increasing public awareness of the consequences, ultimately reducing road accidents.
The partnership demonstrates the potential of collaboration between law enforcement agencies and organisations with a shared commitment to responsible behaviour and public safety.
The positive outcomes of this initiative go beyond law enforcement, benefiting communities and individuals by reducing accidents, saving lives, and lowering healthcare costs. Plans are underway to expand the program to other provinces facing road safety challenges and high drunk driving rates.
The ongoing partnership between the JMPD and Aware.org represents more than just law enforcement; it’s about fostering a culture of responsibility on the roads, saving lives, and building safer, more harmonious communities. As these efforts continue, road safety for Johannesburg residents is expected to advance.
Source: Partnership between Aware.org and JMPD drives road safety, reduces drunk driving
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Photo: Supplied by Rising Sun Newspaper
