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07 December 2010

Media Release: New speed equipment to clampdown on rule breakers

The new cameras not only record the speed of several oncoming vehicles at the same time but are able to identify vehicles that are exceeding the speed limits. The cameras also take live video footages which KNP traffic officers can replay to individuals who express doubt when they are caught speeding.

From time to time, Protection Services receives feedback from concerned tourists about rule breakers who speed on the roads in the park, some protruding or climbing out of their vehicles;” indicated the HOD: Public Relations, William Mabasa. “The law enforcers experience problems when they have to issue out fines to guilty individuals out there, with some contesting the fine and demanding proof”. “Management wanted to tighten the screws in this regard and we are quiet certain that the new equipment will assist us,” continued Mabasa.

During the festive season, the KNP law enforcement officers will also amongst others with effect from Friday, 10 December 2010 conduct roadblocks at strategic places all over the park. General patrolling, visibility on the vulnerable areas such as receptions and bank/auto tellers at rest camps, will also form part of this campaign. There will also be strict spot checks at the entrance gates with emphasis on adherence to permit requirements; security personnel have also been tasked to be on the look-out for suspicious persons and vehicles during this busy period.

Visitors are advised to plan their journey properly and to adhere to the gate times as recorded on maps, permits and signs at the camps. The rules and regulations of the KNP, which are well communicated on entrance permits, signage and pamphlets, include the following:

  • Visitors must remain in their vehicles unless in a designated area.
  • Remember that no part of the body may protrude from a window or sunroof or any other part of the vehicle. Vehicle doors should be closed at all times.
  • Stick to the speed limit! All general rules of the road apply within the Kruger National Park. The speed limit is 50 km/h on tar roads and 40 km/h on gravel roads.
  • General rules of the road apply within the KNP; it is an offence to drive on South African roads without a recognised driver”s licence or under the influence of alcohol.
  • Adhere to the gate times in your green gate permit. You must be inside the camp or out of the gate before gate closing times. No travelling before or after these times are allowed. (In December and January, KNP gates open at 05:30 and close at 18:30. Gate times must be strictly adhered to and late comers may be subject to a fine.
  • You are not allowed to drive “off-road” or on roads with a “no entry” sign.
  • The feeding or disturbing of animals is a serious offence. Also remember, animals see litter as food!
  • No pets may be brought into KNP.
  • Declare all firearms/weapons of any sort at the entrance gate.
  • Overnight visitors are only allowed to stay at a booked and recognised overnight facility and must report to reception before occupying accommodation or camping.
  • Vehicles of a carrying capacity exceeding 4 000 kg, buses or any vehicles with more than 25 seats, are restricted to the tar roads.
  • A stringent noise restriction is enforced between 21:30 and 06:00. Loud car stereo cause a disturbance to animals and other guests; volume levels should be kept to minimum. The use of cell phones is permitted only in camps, gates and in cases of emergency.
  • The use of roller skates, skateboards, bicycles, motorbikes and quad bikes is prohibited.

Issued By

Laura Mukwevho, Media Relations Practitioner, Kruger National Park. Contact: Tel: (013) 735 4262, cell: 082 807 1441 or email: [email protected]

Enquiries

William Mabasa, HOD: Public Relations and Communication, Kruger National Park. Contact: Tel: (013) 735 4363, cell: 082 807 3919 or email: [email protected]