The scenic drive from Bloubergstrand to Melkbosstrand which attracts many motorists, cyclists and pedestrians is popular for its ocean view over Table Bay, however, recently it has caused great concern for visitors and residents alike, due to the ongoing road accidents occurring on the road.
“There is no section of Otto du Plessis Drive that is more dangerous than the other, as many accidents have occurred throughout the years along this road from Bloubergstrand to Melkbosstrand,” said Laura Outhet, spokesperson of Table View Neighbourhood Watch.
However, the recent accidents, including one in which a motorcyclist died (12 June), occurred “between Shell Road and Doodles” in Bloubergstrand, Outhet explained.
Capt Adriana Chandler, spokesperson of Table View Police Station, confirmed Outhet’s statement and said “no other cases of manslaughter were reported”.
Problem roads
Paul Swart, Ward 23 councillor in the area of Melkbosstrand to Duynefontein, and previously of Bloubergstrand, also said this problem is not unique to Bloubergstrand, as every suburb has their “problem roads” where motorists drive recklessly.
Nevertheless, Otto du Plessis Drive remains a dangerous road, where many accidents occur due to reckless driving and not adhering to the speed limit, Swart explained.
On many of the sections along Otto du Plessis Drive there is “little to no lighting which makes it quite difficult to navigate at night”, Outhet said, who attributed this for accidents along this road. Ways in which the accidents on Otto du Plessis Drive can be circumvented includes the installation of speed bumps and cameras, Swart said.
A concerned resident, Kobus Vermeulen, who resides close to Otto du Plessis Drive, has also started a petition in the hope of delivering it to the City of Cape Town in order to put traffic calming measures, such as traffic circles, in place.
“Afternoons when we sit on our porch you can hardly hear the sea as the roar of engines overwhelm the sound of crashing waves,” Vermeulen said.
Vermeulen hopes to get 5 000 signatures which will enable him to take it to the City. At the time of print, the online petition has delivered 2 000 signatures.
- Should you also want to petition, the link can be found here: https://bit.ly/3OP7Ucc.
