Message from Bonginkosi Madikizela, Western Cape Minister of Transport and Public Works
More than 1 300 people are killed on Western Cape roads every year. Alcohol was involved in at least 60% of these deaths. Drinking and driving doesn’t just rob families of loved ones every day. It also has a negative impact on the economy, costing R29 million per day, helping to trap millions in poverty.
If you are one of those people who still drink and drive, you should be aware that those hundreds of people were killed by someone just like you. People who thought it would never happen to them.
Random Breath Testing (RBT) units were introduced in 2017 as part of Department’s efforts to curb driving under the influence on our roads. RBT units are fast-moving units that operate anywhere, at any time, and these units are active across the Western Cape. If you have been drinking you can be arrested, then tested in a mobile evidentiary breath alcohol unit. If you are over the limit you face jail, a fine, and having your licence suspended.
As we head into the summer months and the festive season, the Department of Transport and Public Works’ RBT teams will be working with our municipal traffic partners to target events and venues associated with alcohol consumption. Motorists planning on attending music and cultural festivals, trance parties, and sports events are advised to make alternate travel arrangements to avoid drinking and driving.
In other words, RBT means you need a Plan B.
Cape Town and the Western Cape are renowned for their amazing events, fantastic hospitality and great vibe. As we leave winter behind, we are tempted outdoors by the great weather, and many wonderful music and sporting events. We love that people enjoy our province and we want to encourage everyone to do so.
But we are very serious when we say that if you drink and drive in the Western Cape, we will arrest you.
Ntomboxolo Makoba-Somdaka
Spokesperson for Minister Bonginkosi Madikizela
Tel: 021 483 8067
Cell: 082 953 0026
Email: Ntomboxolo.Makoba-Somdaka@westerncape.gov.za