More than 2000 buses have already been booked to transport pilgrims to Moria in Limpopo ahead of the Easter weekend.
This is according to Olivia Maponya, the president of the SA National Small Bus Operators Council, which represents operators across all provinces with services extending to rural town, villages and major cities.
“We have thousands of buses that will be on the roads during the Easter period, transporting people from parts of the country to various destinations,” she said.
While Moria remains the primary destination due to the Zion Christian Church (ZCC) Easter pilgrimage, Maponya said travel demand extends across the country and beyond.
“More than 2,000 buses have confirmed bookings to Moria. We will also be transporting passengers across South Africa and across borders. Cross-border trips to Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Lesotho and Eswatini are also expected,” she explained.
Maponya noted that Limpopo will receive the highest number of buses, with major flows coming from Gauteng, North West and Mpumalanga.
“This is one of the busiest periods for the transport sector. Families are reuniting and many are travelling for religious gatherings.”
However, Maponya warned that the recent fuel price increases will place financial strain on operators.
“Most trips were pre-booked before the fuel hike. Operators cannot go back to customers to adjust prices, so they will have to absorb the costs,” said Maponya.
Meanwhile, the Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) has announced an intensified Easter safety operation aimed at protecting residents and travellers during the busy period.
JMPD chief of police, Patrick Jaca, has directed high-visibility enforcement focusing on road safety, alcohol abuse and crime prevention.
He said with heavy traffic expected on major routes, the department will implement a “zero tolerance” approach to traffic violations.
“Pedestrians have been warned against walking on or crossing freeways, with officers set to remove and fine those found endangering themselves,” he said.
Authorities will also increase patrols in high-density areas including the Johannesburg inner city, townships and transport hubs to manage foot traffic and prevent accidents.
“Alcohol-related offences will be a key focus, with 24-hour roadblocks targeting drunk driving and public intoxication.
“JMPD will also monitor liquor outlets to ensure compliance with licensing laws and shut down illegal street gatherings that disrupt public order,” said Jaca.
In addition, police visibility will be increased at shopping malls, parks and residential areas to deter crime while many residents travel.
“Our goal this Easter is to ensure that every journey starts and ends safely,” said Jaca. “We appeal to all road users to be patient, sober and vigilant.”
Sowetan
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