DEADLY: 33 pedestrians died on Western Cape roads
Image: Independent Newspapers Archive
At least 33 pedestrians have been killed in Cape Town and surrounding areas over the past three weeks, leading the Western Cape Government to sound the alarm over the safety of road users.
These deaths account for more than half of the 60 total road fatalities recorded during the same period.
According to a recent report from the Western Cape Mobility Department, pedestrians remain some of the most vulnerable road users, often falling prey to reckless behaviour and hazardous conditions.
The analysis highlights that alcohol consumption, jaywalking, and excessive speeding are primary contributors to these fatal incidents.
In response to these alarming statistics, Muneera Allie, the Head of Communication for the Western Cape Mobility Department, expressed her deep concern.
Allie says: “It is concerning that almost 55 percent of fatalities on our roads involve pedestrians, with several more hospitalised.
“These incidents not only cause immense grief and suffering but also bring economic challenges to the affected families and loved ones.”
The department has intensified traffic law enforcement efforts in an attempt to prevent further tragedies, but officials emphasise that compliance with traffic regulations by both drivers and pedestrians is essential.
Last week, the Daily Voice reported an incident of a Manenberg womane who was killed by a taxi on Duinefontein Road. It followed a hit-and-run in Delft where a schoolboy fortunately survived the impact.