Cape Town’s law enforcement agencies are upping their road safety efforts as the peak of the festive season approaches.

The Traffic Service will launch its ‘Operation Exodus’ on Monday.

The focus is on long-distance transport vehicles to ensure that they are roadworthy, and that drivers have the relevant documentation.

Authorities will also check that all passengers are wearing masks – which is compulsory.

The City says it has recorded high numbers of drunk driving, reckless and negligent driving relating to Illegal street racing in recent months.

Political Head of Safety and Security, JP Smith, says the health system can’t afford additional alcohol related incidents.

“We have to emphasise the need for cool heads and accountability this festive season, particularly in light of the second wave of COVID-19 infections. Cape Town needs hospital beds to deal with the sharp increase in COVID infections. We can ill afford a spike in patients linked to irresponsible behaviour on our roads, and alcohol consumption”.