With the Christmas weekend coming up, people will be travelling to spend time with their families and loved ones and I am urging all motorists to please respect the rules of the road. This is for your own safety and the safety of everyone else on the road.

We have already seen some horrific crashes on our roads so please don’t speed. You will get to your destination in time. It’s just not worth the risk to drive faster than the speed limits. Wear your seat belts, and don’t jump traffic lights and stop signs.

Be warned that there will be road blocks across the city during the holiday period and, if you are caught drinking and driving, you are going to spend Christmas in jail. Take a taxi, get a lift with a friend, but don’t get behind the wheel if you’ve had a drink. It’s not worth it.

I have spoken to Alderman JP Smith, Mayoral Committee member for Safety and Security, about calling on all traffic officials in the City not to show any lenience. This is not the time for a slap on the wrist – if you are caught breaking the rules of the road, you will be stopped, you will be fined, and you may even find yourself spending Christmas in jail, so please don’t put yourself in that position. Just be responsible.

I also want to thank all our law enforcement and traffic officials who will be working 24/7 over the festive season, away from their families, to ensure order on our roads. We really appreciate the important work that you do.

And lastly, don’t waste your time taking liquor to the beach. Our officers will confiscate it. You know the rules, please respect them.

I wish all Capetonians a safe and festive Christmas break. Enjoy the time with your families, friends and loved ones.

Executive Mayor Dan Plato
City of Cape Town

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