Driving in Newcastle, Madadeni or Osiziweni has become a skilled art; many have had to master. From being able to dodge cars and taxis ducking in and out of lanes to being conscious of vehicles cutting across intersections and ignoring traffic lights—raising the question, where are the traffic officials?
Due to the said reckless driving, as recently reported on, a prominent traffic officer, Nivesh Nair, was involved in a collision on Sutherland Street. An incident that saw him being airlifted to a medical facility in Johannesburg. Allegedly, a motorist performed an illegal u-turn, causing the accident.
Speaking to Chief Traffic Officer Ashok Anandhaw, the Newcastillian – Online News enquired how the well-loved Traffic Officer Nair is doing.
While doctors are still monitoring him, Anandhaw explains, “He is recovering well and is out of danger.” Further stating, police investigations are now underway.
Discussing reckless driving, he affirms, law enforcement is determined to address the matter by conducting patrols and working with community members—stipulating that traffic officers are frequently deployed to monitor hotspots where traffic infringements regularly occur, such as Allen Street, Victoria Road, Drakensberg Drive and HJ van Eck Drive.
However, as stated to the Traffic Chief, traffic officers are not always at these problematic areas, leaving reckless motorists the opportunity to drive as they please. Responding to this, he explains, challenges are being faced in terms of staffing. “At present, we have six to eight traffic cops on duty, per shift, to cover Newcastle, Madadeni, Osizweni and Blaauwbosch.”
According to Anandhaw, this problem is currently being addressed. “We have sent seven wardens to be trained, and once they are qualified, they will report for duty this December.” Pointing out that these extra seven individuals will be able to cover more ground once qualified.
Moreover, Anandhaw highlights, the following traffic infringements are an issue throughout the area:
- Reckless driving
- Not adhering to traffic lights
- Illegal stopping and parking in the CBD
- Illegal drag racing
Drag racing along HJ van Eck Drive and Allen Street is becoming a significant cause for concern. Anandhaw elaborates that several arrests have been made, with the modified vehicles being impounded and removed from the streets, stating, “90% of crashes are preceded by traffic violations.”
Emphasising that traffic officers are constantly working to promote road safety, Chief Anandhaw was asked about his thoughts on the crime statistics released by Police Minister Bheki Cele, whereby Newcastle Police Station was on the Top 30 in regards to drinking and driving in the country? To which Anandhaw points out there is a positive side to the situation. “This does not necessarily mean more people are drinking and driving in Newcastle than in other towns. It shows there have been more successful arrests.”
In addition, the Chief Traffic Officer is now issuing a stern warning to Newcastle motorists. While law enforcement relies heavily on the community to adhere to traffic laws, he emphasises, “If people continue with this unlawful road attitude, come 1 July 2021, when AARTO is launched nationally, they will feel the wrath of the law.”
Through AARTO (Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences Act), motorists could lose their driver’s licences. Anandhaw reminds motorists, “The last time many people drove nicely was when they went for their driver’s licence test. But people must remember, having a licence is a privilege, and this can be lost.”
With Anandhaw clarifying the path forward, what are your thoughts on the matter? Have you had a bad experience with a careless driver? If so, let us know.
Share your views in the comment section below.
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