The Western Cape Government urges drivers and pedestrians to act responsibly after 23 lives were lost on the province’s roads in just one week.
Image: City of Cape Town
The Western Cape Government is sounding the alarm after 23 people died in road accidents last week, with drunk driving arrests reaching alarming levels.
Between June 30 and July 6, 2025, a total of 23 crashes were reported across the province, claiming the lives of 15 pedestrians, four drivers, three passengers, and one motorcyclist.
Western Cape mobility spokesperson Muneera Allie says these figures serve as a sobering reminder that reckless behaviour on our roads continues to have devastating consequences, particularly for our most vulnerable road users,”
Provincial authorities are particularly disturbed by the 57 arrests for drunk driving made in the same week, a period marked by persistent rainfall, wet roads, and limited visibility.
“Most alarming is the 57 people arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol during a week marked by heavy rain across the province,” said Western Cape Mobility Minister Isaac Sileku.
“Driving while under the influence, no matter how small the amount, will not be tolerated. Drivers are urged to prioritise safety at all times.”
The winter season presents added dangers on the roads, including shorter daylight hours, slippery conditions, and poor visibility, which increase the risk of fatal crashes.
Pedestrians remain the most at risk. Authorities are urging them to take extra precautions such as wearing bright or reflective clothing, using designated crossings, avoiding distractions like cellphones, and never walking under the influence of alcohol.
To enhance road safety, the Western Cape’s Provincial Traffic Services conducted 213 integrated operations last week, including roadblocks, vehicle checkpoints, and speed monitoring. These efforts saw more than 27,000 vehicles stopped and checked, with over 4,000 traffic fines issued.
A total of 78 arrests were made for the including 57 for driving under the influence of alcohol, 4 for reckless and negligent driving, 1 for a speed-related offence, 3 for transporting overloaded goods, 11 for possession of fraudulent documentation, and 2 for failure to furnish information.
“The loss of lives on our roads is avoidable and requires collective action. Too many innocent lives are impacted and altered by the poor judgment and decisions of road users,” said Minister Sileku.
He concluded with a heartfelt call to all road users.
“Pedestrians remain our most vulnerable road users, and the numbers recorded this weekend are a stark reminder. We all have a role to play in protecting lives on our roads, let’s drive, walk, and act with care.”
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