Connect with us

411

JMPD Launches Major Operation to Ease Traffic in Sandton and Surrounds

Published

on

Picture: Sandton Chronicle

The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) has launched a significant initiative aimed at easing traffic congestion and enhancing road safety in Johannesburg, starting with the high-traffic Grayston Drive and M1 intersection. This operation, which began on January 29, involves the deployment of over 400 officers and the assistance of Outsurance traffic controllers.

Xolani Fihla, spokesperson for JMPD, explained that the operation’s goal is to address the persistent traffic jams that occur, particularly during peak hours. “We have identified over 300 major intersections where traffic congestion is a serious problem, and we’re deploying a large number of officers to these areas,” Fihla stated. The department aims to provide residents with a smoother, safer commute through the city.

While the operation primarily targets traffic flow, it also addresses broader road safety issues. JMPD has identified several contributing factors, including non-functional traffic lights due to power outages or vandalism. Even intersections with operational traffic lights continue to experience slow traffic flow, exacerbating congestion.

“Traffic control is not our only concern; we are also focusing on road safety. For example, pedestrians are crossing busy roads in unsafe areas instead of using designated pedestrian bridges. We also face challenges with informal traders and hawkers who not only create congestion but also attract criminal activities,” said Fihla.

A particular focus of the initiative is the issue of scholar transport, where many vehicles are in poor condition, and drivers often lack the necessary documentation. JMPD is collaborating with various law enforcement agencies and organizations to investigate the operations of scholar transport vehicles to ensure the safety of young learners.

“We are working closely with stakeholders to ensure that learner safety is prioritized, and that all road users, including drivers and pedestrians, are secure,” Fihla added.

The JMPD operation is part of a broader, long-term strategy to improve traffic flow and road safety across Johannesburg. According to Vicky Manyathi, Acting Head of Public Safety in the City of Johannesburg, the city is also collaborating with the Johannesburg Road Agency to ensure that traffic lights at critical intersections are functioning properly.

“There is a partnership between the city and the province to fix and maintain traffic lights, especially at major intersections. We are also planning to install CCTV cameras to monitor traffic movements and ensure a more efficient response to incidents,” Manyathi explained.

The effort signals a larger, coordinated push to tackle Johannesburg’s ongoing traffic and road safety challenges, with an emphasis on collaboration and efficiency.

JMPD Rescues Uber Driver After Hijacking Incident in Alexandra

Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter , TikTok and Instagram

For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com

Sourced: Sandton Chronicle