The Western Cape Mobility Department is taking action after a spike in pedestrian deaths, with 42 of the 72 road fatalities recorded between 1 and 22 July 2025 involving pedestrians.

The department has called the situation a “scourge” and is rolling out multiple interventions to prevent further loss of life.

“Pedestrians remain the most vulnerable road users,” said departmental spokesperson Muneera Allie.

She said the fatalities occur across both urban and rural areas, but with high-density zones such as Khayelitsha, Milnerton, Paarl, and Kuils River flagged as hotspots. These hotspot zones include the R300 corridor.

However, Allie noted that over 20 pedestrian deaths were recorded outside these areas, showing that “no community is immune”.

She advised that most incidents occurred at night, often on poorly lit highways. Factors contributing to the deaths include jaywalking, alcohol use by both pedestrians and drivers, speeding, and the failure to use pedestrian crossings.

In response, the Mobility Department, together with law enforcement and municipalities, is enforcing a province-wide road safety drive.

From 1 to 22 July, 442 Provincial Vehicle Check Point operations were conducted, including 219 drunk driving checks and 84 public transport inspections. Law enforcement visibility is being ramped up along key routes, while Road Safety Ambassadors have been deployed to hotspot areas to educate the public.

“The loss of pedestrian lives is not just a statistic, it represents families torn apart and communities left in mourning,” said Mobility MEC, Isaac Sileku.

Awareness campaigns are also underway, supported by schools, NGOs and local organisations. The department is preparing to roll out new pedestrian safety infrastructure in high-risk zones in the coming months.

Sileku further stressed that road safety is a collective effort among all road users.

“We urge both motorists and pedestrians to take responsibility. Motorists must slow down and remain vigilant, while pedestrians should always use designated crossings, wear visible clothing at night, and avoid walking under the influence of alcohol,”

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