By: Matshidiso Selebeleng
In efforts to improve service delivery in the Free State, the Department of Community Safety, Roads, and Transport handed over 50 vehicles, valued at approximately R30 million, to various departments at the Government Garage in Bloemfontein yesterday.
The handover includes 15 vehicles for traffic and road safety.
They include 10 Volkswagen Polo sedans and five GWM (Great Wall Motors) double-cab pick-ups. Among these, two GWM double-cab vehicles were allocated to Traffic Management operations along the N3 corridor, while three were designated to support road safety awareness and outreach programs.
Additionally, the Department of Social Development received 35 GWM double-cab pick-ups to assist with community-based service delivery initiatives.
The Department of Health received 10 mortuary vans intended for the Department of Pathology to enhance emergency medical and forensic responses.
The Director for Forensic Pathology Services in the Free State Department of Health, Dr Joe Khoali, said the vehicles will make a significant difference in the department.
He says they will allow them to perform their duties without any challenges.
“In the Free State, we have 11 mortuaries, seven are used for dissection, and four serve as holding facilities.
“Until now, we have only had seven cars, which often break down due to high mileage, making repairs economically unfeasible,” said Khoali.
He explained that these new vehicles would be distributed across all facilities, allowing each worker to carry out responsibilities effectively.
MEC for Community Safety, Roads, and Transport, Jabu Mbalula, during the handover, emphasised the importance of not using the state vehicles for personal purposes.
“When we receive vehicles, we should not just put the papers under the carpet.
“These vehicles are tools for work, and we must clearly communicate to the people of the Free State that service delivery can be improved when state resources are allocated effectively."
He also highlighted that fleet management should be a priority for the government, especially concerning the transportation needs of various departments.
Mbalula encouraged everyone to travel safely during this festive season.
