City offers free vehicle safety checks ahead of Easter holidays

The City’s Safety and Security Directorate will run its Operation Exodus from on Friday, 11 April 2025 until Thursday, 17 April to ensure road and vehicle safety this Easter long weekend. The operation will offer free vehicle safety checks to long-distance operators before they leave to hit the open road.

Road safety will be a top priority this Easter – with Operation Exodus making a return to facilitate vehicle safety checks for long-distance transport operators, road blocks and vehicle checkpoints. Read more below:

Last year the directorate underwent 487 vehicle checks during the Easter weekend, while the City’s enforcement services made 305 arrests, including 25 for driving under the influence of alcohol.

The City has informed and advised Cape Town motorists to attend to any issue where vehicle defects are detected and to have their vehicles retested afterwards.

“Ensuring your vehicle is roadworthy before taking any trip, especially over peak times and popular travel holidays like Easter, can help identify critical issues and save lives,” said Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, JPSmith

Smith added that Easter is synonymous with higher traffic volumes and unfortunately, an increase in horrific vehicle accidents. He says vehicle fitness is crucial, along with responsible driving behaviour.

According to the City, the vehicle checks are free and will only cost motorists some time to get it done. When on the road, drivers are also urged to ensure that they are in top shape, and hydrated, take regular breaks, and stop and stretch their legs when they feel fatigued.

“We want to make sure everyone gets where they want to be safely and back again,” added Smith

Operation Exodus venues are Joe Gqabi, Bellville, Cape Town station and the Intercape Bus Depot.