WELKOM – Immediate intervention and a coordinated action plan to address stray animals on regional roads between Bothaville, Wesselsbron and Welkom will be addressed as a matter of urgent priority.

The Democratic Alliance (DA) in the Lejweleputswa District Municipality will write to the district municipal manager, Motlatsi Makhetha, to request intervention.

The party said the animals have become a danger to motorists, particularly at night, and are causing accidents that have resulted in fatalities.

Road users have raised concerns about cattle and other livestock roaming on regional roads at night when visibility is poor. The situation places pressure on emergency services, the DA said.

The party said the roads are in poor condition with potholes, which worsens the situation.

The problem reflects a failure to enforce by-laws relating to animal control and road safety, according to the DA.

Owners of livestock are responsible for ensuring their animals are secured and do not endanger the public, the party said.

Municipalities and provincial authorities must improve fencing in critical areas, increase road patrols and respond to reports of stray animals, the DA said.

The party called for stronger enforcement against negligent livestock owners and improved maintenance of fences along regional roads.

Cllr. Mahalia Kose – DA Councillor Lejweleputswa District Municipality, says the district must conduct community awareness campaigns on the dangers posed by stray animals.

The party said road safety is a shared responsibility and preventing accidents requires urgent intervention from the district and all local municipalities in Lejweleputswa.