The Western Cape Department of Mobility has expressed concern after 30 people died on the province’s roads in the week leading up to Christmas, between 15 and 21 December.

During this period, which is the peak travel period for the festive season, 28 crashes were recorded. Among the victims are 11 pedestrians.

The week before, between 8 and 14 December, 50 people died on the roads.

The Department says provincial Traffic Law Enforcement made 98 arrests, of which 56 accounted for driving under the influence of alcohol and 12 for possession of fraudulent documentation.

A further 154 speeding offences were recorded, with the highest speed clocked at 161km/h in a 120km/h zone, placing all road users at risk.

Nearly 200 roadblocks were implemented over this period, and over 30,000 vehicles were stopped. Just over 10,000 fines were issued for a range of offences, including driver and vehicle fitness violations.

Western Cape Mobility MEC Isaac Sileku said the figures are a sobering reminder of the responsibility every road user carries.

“While we are encouraged by the strong enforcement footprint and the dedication shown by our traffic officers, the loss of life on our roads is deeply concerning. Driving under the influence, excessive speeding and unsafe pedestrian behaviour are preventable causes of tragedy. We appeal to every motorist and pedestrian to make responsible choices so that families are not robbed of loved ones during this festive season.”

Chief Director: Traffic Management Maxine Bezuidenhout says traffic teams remain committed to helping people get to and from their destinations safely.

“Our provincial traffic officers, together with local traffic and emergency partners, remain deployed across the Western Cape, day and night. Enforcement is firm, but our ultimate goal is not fines or arrests; it is saving lives. We urge motorists to slow down, remain sober behind the wheel, and be mindful of pedestrians, especially in busy urban and rural areas.”

The Department has called on residents and visitors to plan, allow extra travel time, obey traffic laws and look out for fellow travellers.