Minister Chikunga says the economic impact of road fatalities amounts to billions of rand.

VAAL TRIANGLE - Transport minister Sindisiwe Chikunga has revealed that during the 2023/2024 festive period, there were 1,184 fatal crashes, showing a 2.3% decrease from the previous year’s 1,212 incidents. The decline is attributed to intensified law enforcement operations. The Eastern Cape exceeded its targeted reduction in fatalities by 18.6%. Briefing the media, Chikunga said the festive season faced challenges with heavy rainfall and storms, leading to avoidable crashes as some drivers failed to adjust their speed.

Chikunga has noted the alarming number of young people killed in road accidents are between the ages of 25 and 44 years. The minister released the 2023/2024 festive season road traffic statistics at a media briefing in Gauteng. Fatalities reduced by 25, from 1,452 in the previous reporting period to 1,427 in the current period. Chikunga attributed the decrease to relentless law enforcement, as well as education and awareness campaigns.