South African President, Cyril Ramaphosa has signed the National traffic Amendment Bill into legislation. Image: BUSINESSTECH.
(The Post News)- President Cyril Ramaphosa has decisively signed the National Road Traffic Amendment Bill into law, implementing bold measures that will significantly enhance road safety and reinforce the integrity of South Africa’s traffic management systems.
This vital legislation amends the National Road Traffic Act of 1996, aligning with the National Road Safety Strategy, which prioritizes the creation of safer roads, vehicles, and road users, as well as efficient post-crash responses. The bill enacts several crucial reforms, including stringent regulations on driver fitness, vehicle safety, and the transportation of hazardous materials. Key provisions include:
Suspension and Cancellation of Registrations: Driving licence examiners, vehicle examiners, and traffic officers risk suspension or deregistration if implicated in specific offences or conflicts of interest.
New Offences and Stricter Oversight: The law introduces new offences concerning learner’s licences and mandates the registration and grading of driving schools, testing centres, and training facilities to ensure accountability.
Conflict of Interest Restrictions: Vehicle examiners, traffic officers, and National Traffic Information System (NaTIS) officials are barred from holding any direct or indirect financial interests in businesses linked to motor vehicle manufacturing, modification, or road transport services to prevent corruption.
The legislation enhances scrutiny over stakeholders involved in number plate manufacturing, weighbridge operations, and vehicle modifications. It also requires the registration of individuals engaged in the construction or importation of vehicle bodies, buses, or midibuses.
Crucially, the new law mandates immediate response from emergency services to road incidents and outlines stringent operational protocols. Emergency vehicles are limited to a speed of 20 km/h when navigating intersections while responding to emergencies, ensuring the safety of all road users. A significant focus on combating fraud includes severe penalties for those who assist driving license applicants in engaging in illegal activities. These measures are vital to maintaining the integrity of the driver’s license issuance process.
The enactment of the National Road Traffic Amendment Bill marks a monumental step toward safer roads and a more accountable traffic system in South Africa. By closing loopholes and enforcing rigorous regulations, the government is resolutely committed to reducing road accidents, enhancing mobility, and safeguarding the lives of all road users. This bill’s passage underscores the government’s determination to make South Africa’s roads safer and align with international standards.
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