Johannesburg’s MMC for public safety, Mgcini Tshwaku, is under fire for announcing citywide scholar transport operations following a devastating accident in Vanderbijlpark that killed 12 children.
Many are questioning the timing and effectiveness of the measures, calling them “reactive” rather than proactive.
In a social media post, Tshwaku said metro police are inspecting vehicle roadworthiness, driver licenses, and overloading, with non-compliance resulting in impoundment, arrests, and fines.
However, critics argue this comes too late and won’t prevent future tragedies.
“With the greatest of respect, there’s nothing proactive about this operation,” said Sithembiso Nyandeni. “They’re reactive for obvious reasons, and in a week everything will be back to normal until calamity strikes again.
“The public’s frustration is understandable, given Gauteng’s disturbing trend of scholar transport accidents.”
In July last year, over 20 high school pupils were injured in a crash, and in March, 19 pupils were injured in another incident.
Just two days before that, four primary school pupils were killed in a road accident.Parents and community members are calling for consistent, proactive measures to ensure children’s safety.
“Always reactive,” said Brenda Roberts. “Closing the barn door after the horse has bolted. You’ll do this for a few days, and then we’ll go back to the way things were until the next tragedy.
“The Gauteng Department of Health confirms the Vanderbijlpark accident is still under investigation, with both drivers under scrutiny.
No arrests have been made. As outrage grows, the demand for effective action intensifies. Can the authorities prove they’re committed to keeping children safe?
