As the school bells prepare to chime once again, the Western Cape Government is taking proactive steps to ensure that learners and commuters embark on safer journeys, Cape {town} Etc reports.
From 21 to 23 July 2026, the provincial government will offer free vehicle safety checks tailored specifically for scholar transport and public transport vehicles.
This initiative comes at a crucial time as thousands of learners return to school after the holiday break.
Conducted at Gene Louw Traffic College and various vehicle testing centres across the province, these safety checks will be available daily from 8 am to 3 pm. The initiative is a collaborative effort involving local municipalities and vehicle testing centres, emphasising a community-driven approach to road safety.
While these inspections do not equate to formal roadworthy tests, they promise to deliver practical assessments performed by qualified vehicle examiners. The inspections will focus on critical vehicle safety components, including:
- Tyres
- Braking systems
- Lights
- Suspension
- CV joints
- Exhaust systems
- Windscreen wipers
Following the assessment, operators will receive a printed report detailing any identified defects or safety concerns that necessitate attention. This proactive approach enables transport operators to address potential risks before they compromise the safety of their passengers.
Chief Director for Traffic Management in the Western Cape Mobility Department, Maxine Bezuidenhout highlighted the importance of the initiative in light of the returning school traffic. ‘For many families, scholar transport is an essential service that they trust every day. These free vehicle safety checks provide operators with an opportunity to identify and address potential safety concerns,’ she stated.
‘While this is not a roadworthy test, it is a practical preventative measure that can make a meaningful difference to road safety,’
The Western Cape Government’s commitment to improving road safety extends beyond just these checks. The focus on preventative vehicle maintenance serves as a vital strategy to reduce breakdowns and prevent avoidable accidents.
By identifying and rectifying defects at an early stage, drivers and operators can ensure the safety and reliability of vehicles that serve countless learners and commuters every day.
Operators, schools, and transport drivers are encouraged to seize this opportunity and contribute to fostering safer roads for everyone. Together, we can help make the school return not just a time of excitement, but a secure journey for all involved.
Free vehicle safety checks
Dates: 21–23 July 2026
Time: 08:00–15:00
Participating vehicle safety check centres include:
- Gene Louw Traffic Training College, Brackenfell Blvd, Brackenfell
- Swartland Municipality, St Thomas St, Malmesbury
- Swartland Municipality, River Str, Moorreesburg
- Cape Agulhas Municipality, 1 Dirkie Uys Str, Bredasdorp
- Cederberg Municipality, 2A Voortrekker Str, Clanwilliam
- Cederberg Municipality, Citrusdal Traffic Department, Citrusdal
- Hessequa Municipality, 48 Mulder Str, Riversdale
- Beaufort West Municipality, Lock Way, Newton, Beaufort West
- City of Cape Town – Kuils River, Fabriek Str, Kuils River
- City of Cape Town – Bellrail, 2 Reed Str, Bellville
- AVTS Airport, Boston Circle, Airport Industria
- AVTS Bellville, Cnr Duminy and Voortrekker Rd, Bellville
- AVTS CBD, 86 Sir Lowry Rd, Cape Town
- AVTS Kenilworth, 422 Imam Haron Rd, Lansdowne
- AVTS Strand, 3 Calvyn Str, Strand
- AVTS Table View, 139 Blaauwberg Rd, Table View
- AVTS Wingfield, Olympic Park, Voortrekker Rd, Goodwood
- Lansdowne VTS, Unit 21, Cnr Blomvlei Rd and Jan Smuts Drive, Lansdowne
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Picture: WCG
