Western Cape Mobility Reports Significant Rise in Road Fatalities

Western cape: The Western Cape Mobility Department is deeply concerned about a significant rise in road fatalities during the first 11 days of August 2025. In this period, the provincial department said 52 people have lost their lives, compared to 28 fatalities in the same timeframe last year. According to South African Government News Agency, fatalities have occurred across urban and rural areas. There were 37 deaths on municipal roads, with 15 more recorded on provincial routes. Meanwhile, pedestrians remain the most vulnerable, with 28 fatalities. In addition, the department said passenger and driver deaths have also risen sharply, and motorcycle-related fatalities on municipal roads have been reported for the first time this year. 'The main causes are speeding, alcohol use, unsafe pedestrian crossings, and poor visibility at night. These behaviours put all road users at risk,' the statement read. According to the department, from 1 and 11 August, provincial traffic officers conducted 394 integrated che ckpoints and roadblocks on high-risk routes. They stopped and inspected 60,226 vehicles, which included 3,770 public transport vehicles, and arrested 195 drivers for driving under the influence, with one driver registering a blood alcohol level nearly six times the legal limit. During this period, the team also recorded a total of 15,824 offences, which included speeding, reckless driving, cellphone use while driving, and seatbelt violations. In addition, they discontinued 341 vehicles from use and impounded 46 due to roadworthy issues. 'Fifty-two lives lost in eleven days - that's 52 families shattered. These aren't numbers, they're our neighbours, friends, and loved ones. I'm asking every driver, passenger, and pedestrian - slow down, stay sober, and make the choices that keep us all alive. Let's make sure no more families must get that devastating call,' Western Cape Mobility MEC, Isaac Sileku. The department has since urged drivers to slow down, stay alert, and obey traffic laws, and pedestrians to cro ss roads only at safe points, stay visible at night, and avoid alcohol near traffic. The province is also encouraging all road users to avoid walking on freeways and use safe and legal routes. 'Road safety is a shared responsibility. Every choice matters, and every life is precious.'