Lerato Mbhiza
THE Johannesburg metro police department (JMPD) has appointed 200 points officials to help improve urban traffic flow in the city, especially at malfunctioning traffic lights during load-shedding.
The newly trained officials, some of whom had previously managed traffic at intersections for tips, and without authorisation, started their duties on Monday.
The deployment will help ease traffic congestion during load shedding or when vandalism of infrastructure and cable theft leaves lights leaves intersections without lights.
The frequency of load shedding and infrastructure problems have seen street traders and people who beg at intersections take on the role of informal pointsmen.
Mgcini Tshwaku, MMC for public safety said the initiative addresses the challenges of load-shedding and ineffective traffic lights which have been affecting the city’s road networks.
“The deployment of traffic point officials is a proactive measure aimed at reducing traffic disruptions and enhancing the travel experience for residents and visitors. We received more than 100,000 applications, said Tshwaku.
He said the city could not take in more applicants due to budget constraints, but hoped to increase the numbers later.
“We recognise the public’s concerns about untrained individuals managing traffic. Under the JMPD’s guidance, we assure you there will be strict oversight and accountability for our officers’ work. Our focus is to ensure traffic control in the city is in the hands of trained, authorised professionals from this point forward.”
JMPD’s spokesperson, Xolani Fihla, said the trained officials started their duties on Monday.
“The deployment of the points men is a proactive measure aimed at reducing traffic and disruptions. They have been deployed in all seven regions of the city, starting with the on job training and orientation
“The department’s focus is to ensure that traffic is controlled by trained and authorised personnel who can account for the city,” added Fihla.
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