The upcoming Easter long weekend (March 29 to April 1) is traditionally very busy in Cape Town. This year, expectations are that it will be even busier, as it coincides with the school holidays.
In response, the City of Cape Town will implement its integrated public safety plan, formulated annually for the festive season and Easter period.
While the enforcement agencies will focus on numerous identified priorities, road safety is a key factor.
Among the measures implemented in this regard are Operation Exodus to facilitate vehicle safety checks for long-distance transport operators, roadblocks, and vehicle checkpoints – particularly around public transport interchanges.
During Easter week last year, the City’s enforcement services made 361 arrests, including 80 for driving under the influence of alcohol, and issued 72 465 fines for various transgressions.
The City's Public Emergency Communication Centre recorded 2 294 incidents over the 2023 Easter long weekend, including 211 incidents of assault and 75 motor vehicle and pedestrian vehicle accidents.
“For most people, this is a time of relaxation and spending time with their loved ones. For criminals, it is an opportunity to exploit that holiday spirit, so we urge the public to be vigilant wherever they go. Experience has also taught us to expect increased levels of alcohol use and related trauma over the payday or month-end periods.
“The long weekend will likely further complicate matters. Our enforcement strategy is to ensure public safety, but staff will not hesitate to act against anyone wilfully putting themselves or others at risk,” said Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, JP Smith.
Swimming pools schedule
All community swimming pools will be open daily from today (March 25) until Monday (April 1), before closing for the off-season.
The Trafalgar swimming pool will remain open daily until April 12, as an alternative facility while repairs are completed at the Long Street indoor swimming pool.
“Our lifeguards will be on duty at swimming pools and beaches until the conclusion of the Easter weekend. We’ve had 14 fatal drownings since September and I implore the public to please work with us to ensure that no more lives are lost in this manner. We have safety measures in place at our facilities, but ultimately personal safety is a guest’s responsibility,” added Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Patricia van der Ross.
Click here for the list of pools and their operating times.
