Putco has also dispatched around 500 buses to Moria, in Limpopo, for the first full pilgrimage since the Covid-19 pandemic.
As South Africans prepared for the Easter weekend, President Cyril Ramaphosa urged citizens to take care of themselves and others on the roads and in social situations.
Traffic is anticipated to increase significantly from Thursday as holidaymakers, travellers, and church congregants embark on various activities, including religious pilgrimages, during the long weekend.
Bus company Putco has reportedly dispatched around 500 buses to Moria, in Limpopo, for the first full pilgrimage since the Covid-19 pandemic.
Well-wishes
On Thursday, Ramaphosa spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said the president wishes South Africans a happy and safe Easter, which depends on citizens conducting themselves with “tolerance, patience, and respect for everyone with whom they come into contact.”
“President Ramaphosa offers his best wishes for the Easter break to South Africa’s diverse Christian denominations, as well as compatriots for whom this will be a period of rest and social connection.”
Ramaphosa said Easter is a time of reflection for members of the Christian faith.
“Easter is a special period for devoted Christians to celebrate their faith and the triumph of life over death, and it is an opportunity for South Africans of all backgrounds to enjoy rest and reconnection with family and friends.”
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Road safety
Ramaphosa urged motorists to respect the rules of the road.
“As we move around our beautiful country, let us reduce speed, buckle up, rest up and leave our phones alone while we’re driving. Let’s make sure vehicles are well-maintained and that we avoid the need to rush by leaving home or our workplaces early enough.
“This will allow us to be patient with other road users and to enjoy the beauty of our landscapes. This should also be a period of care and peace in our homes and communities. May this be a time of celebration and rejuvenation for the year ahead,” Ramaphosa said.
Meanwhile, the City of Johannesburg Emergency Management Services (COJEMS) said it is on standby to respond to various emergency incidents that may occur during the Easter break.
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