BY KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
MEC for transport, safety and liaison department, Pauline Williams officially launched the Northern Cape Province’s October Transport Month. Williams said the focus of the transport industry across the country is under the theme: “Together we move South Africa Forward.”
“This is not only a great honour and privilege but also an essential platform to share ideas and exchange thoughts on road safety. We also highlight our plights and initiatives. Today and this month present us as the department of transport and stakeholders with an opportunity to highlight our endeavours.
“Today is not the start of road safety initiatives, law enforcement and awareness on the important work we do as department, but rather a month we give focus to. We talking about the mandate of the department and the important role transport plays in all our everyday lives,” she said.
Williams added that the messages does not exclude anyone but is for all road users including pedestrians, cyclists, motorists and users of all forms of transport be it air, land, water or rail.
She further said road safety is everyone’s responsibility.
“We will not seize as department in our efforts to educate our public and all road users of this important fact. This means that each and every one of us has an important role to play and something to contribute towards safer roads and curbing the loss of lives on our roads.
“That starts with me and you. We all have a responsibility to abide by the rules of the road. I am starting with this important reality as it is crucial to any safe, sustainable and cost effective transport system. Let us be cognisant of the fact that the cars do not drive themselves, people do. People walk on the streets, people own livestock that are at times the cause of accidents, people speed and drive under the influence of alcohol,” Williams said.
She said the changing of behaviour and education was imperative. Williams added that people need to maintain good road usage as road users and curb the loss of life on the roads and injuries while creating an environment where all are and feel safe.
The Guardian 