The Department of Transport in the Eastern Cape says law enforcement officials will be on high alert this festive season focusing on traffic violations and enforcement to make the province’s roads safer.

Eastern Cape Roads, Transport and Community Safety MEC, Weziwe Tikana-Gxothiwe, says numerous roadblocks will be set up on strategic routes to check for compliance.

Traffic volumes are expected to increase this weekend as schools in the coastal provinces close on Friday.

The first of these roadblocks were set up near Komani on the N6.

Tikana-Gxothiwe has urged motorists to exercise caution.

“We have done our work with citizens and motorists. We still continue doing that work with law enforcement officers [and also] working with all stakeholders. We believe that what we [are] launching today will yield positive results. We wish to see a reduction in road accidents,” explains Tikana-Gxothiwe.

Video: Eastern Cape officials prepare for festive season traffic

On Wednesday, the eThekwini Municipality said it will deploy over 2 000 Metro police officers to increase safety and security during the December holidays.

The City said its law enforcement officials and lifeguards have undergone intensive training to ensure that they are ready for any eventuality.