JMPD Launches Campaign to Enforce Roadworthy Compliance

The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) has launched a robust campaign aimed at enforcing roadworthy compliance among motorists in Gauteng. This initiative forms part of a broader effort to improve road safety and reduce accidents caused by unroadworthy vehicles and reckless driving.

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Background and Context

Road safety remains a critical concern in Gauteng, especially during peak travel periods such as holidays. In 2024, South Africa recorded over 300 road fatalities during the Easter period alone, with Gauteng accounting for 61 of these deaths. In many of these incidents, drivers operate poorly maintained vehicles or ones that fail to meet safety standards. To address this, the JMPD, in collaboration with the City of Johannesburg’s Department of Public Safety, has intensified enforcement actions targeting unroadworthy vehicles and other traffic violations.

Focus of the Campaign

The campaign emphasises the importance of ensuring that all vehicles on Gauteng’s roads are safe and compliant with legal standards. Key elements include:

• Roadworthy Inspections: Officers are conducting roadside checks to verify that vehicles meet safety requirements. This includes inspecting brakes, tyres, lights, and other critical components to ensure vehicles are fit for the road.
• Targeting Public Transport: Special attention is given to public transport vehicles such as taxis and buses, which carry multiple passengers. Ensuring these vehicles are roadworthy is vital for passenger safety.
• Driver Documentation: The campaign also enforces compliance with licensing and registration requirements. Drivers are required to present valid driver’s licences and vehicle registration documents during roadblocks.
• Zero Tolerance for Drunk Driving: Alongside roadworthy checks, the JMPD is intensifying efforts to curb drunk driving. Recent operations led to over 100 arrests for alcohol-related driving offences, highlighting the need for ongoing vigilance.

Enforcement Measures and Public Education

The JMPD has set up strategic roadblocks, including at key locations such as the Grasmere Toll Plaza, a major route for travelers leaving Johannesburg. These roadblocks serve both enforcement and educational purposes. Law enforcement officers stop motorists for compliance checks and distribute safety information to raise awareness about responsible driving.

Public education is a cornerstone of the campaign. The JMPD and Department of Public Safety are disseminating safety tips, including:

• Planning journeys to avoid fatigue
• Ensuring vehicles are properly maintained
• Adhering to speed limits and traffic laws
• Avoiding distractions such as mobile phone use while driving
• Wearing seatbelts at all times
• Pedestrians using sidewalks and wearing visible clothing at night

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The Broader Road Safety Strategy

This campaign is part of a comprehensive strategy by Johannesburg authorities to reduce road fatalities and injuries. The City of Johannesburg’s Department of Public Safety has reiterated that non-compliance with road safety laws will result in fines, arrests, and vehicle impoundments. The authorities have made the message clear: they will not tolerate unsafe vehicles or reckless driving.

Moreover, the JMPD actively works to root out corruption within its ranks. Any officer found accepting bribes related to traffic enforcement will face immediate disciplinary action, reinforcing a culture of accountability.

Impact and Community Involvement

The JMPD encourages community members to participate actively by reporting reckless driving, unroadworthy vehicles, and corruption. Building a culture of accountability and respect for road safety is essential to achieving lasting change.

Acting Chief of Emergency Medical Services, Clement Masinge, has urged motorists to prioritise safety, especially during holiday seasons when traffic volumes increase. He emphasised the importance of rest breaks and adherence to traffic laws to prevent accidents.

Road Safety

The JMPD’s campaign to enforce roadworthy compliance is a vital step towards safer roads in Gauteng. By combining strict enforcement with public education and community engagement, the department aims to reduce accidents, save lives, and promote responsible driving behaviour. Authorities urge motorists to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy, carry proper documentation, and drive responsibly to help make roads safer for everyone.

For ongoing updates and safety tips, motorists can follow the Johannesburg Metro Police Department’s official channels and the City of Johannesburg’s Public Safety Department.