Transport authorities focus on road safety ahead of Reed Dance
The KwaZulu-Natal Transport Department says they have adopted a zero tolerance approach to road safety ahead of this year's annual Umkhosi Womhlanga.
Officials say the safe transportation of maidens to the event at the eNyokeni Royal Palace in Nongoma in northern KwaZulu-Natal is a top priority.
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More than a thousand law enforcement officers will be deployed across routes leading to venue this weekend.
Transport MEC Mxolisi Kaunda says buses and minibus taxis transporting the 45,000 maidens to Nongoma have all undergone roadworthy checks.
"We are issuing a stern warning, if you think we will allow your vehicle to pass our police, it's not going to happen. People must not allow their vehicles out of their depots if they are not in good shape," said Kaunda.
Arts and Culture MEC Hlengiwe Mavimbela says parents and guardians need to be on high alert.
"We are expecting a lot of people. Even those with bad interests are sometimes attracted. We are appealing to parents and those looking after maidens to make sure they remain in groups and not to venture off to areas where there are no security officials," she said.
