JB Marks Authorities Crack Down on Unsafe Scholar Transport in Potch

Karen Scheepers
2 hours ago
2 min read

Following a wave of tragic road incidents across South Africa, the JB Marks Local Municipality, in collaboration with the North West Department of Community Safety and Transport Management, has intensified law enforcement operations targeting scholar transport in and around Potchefstroom.

The "Safety Blitz," which began following the reopening of schools in mid-January 2026, aims to address the growing concern over unroadworthy vehicles and unlicensed operators ferrying learners.

Zero Tolerance for Lawlessness

Led by the Municipal Directorate of Community Safety, Roads, and Transport Management, traffic officers have established several checkpoints on major routes, including the N12 and key arterial roads leading to schools in Ikageng and the Potchefstroom CBD.

The operation focuses on five critical areas:

Vehicle Roadworthiness: Checking for worn tires, faulty brakes, and expired license discs.
Overloading: Ensuring vehicles do not exceed the passenger capacity stipulated on their discs.
Permit Compliance: Verifying that drivers possess valid Professional Driving Permits (PrDP).
Driver Sobriety: Conducting random breathalyzer tests during early morning and afternoon shifts.
Safety Features: Inspecting seatbelts and emergency exits.

Sidebar: Safety Checklist for Parents

Before you entrust your child to a transport provider, ensure you can check off the following:

[ ] Driver’s License: Does the driver have a valid license and a professional driving permit (PrDP)?
[ ] Vehicle Disc: Is the license disc on the windshield current and valid?
[ ] Seatbelts: Does every child have access to a working seatbelt?
[ ] General Condition: Are the tires in good condition, and do all lights/indicators work?
[ ] No Bakkies: Remember, transporting learners in the back of an open bakkie or truck is illegal and highly dangerous.

How to Report Unsafe Operators

If you witness reckless driving or suspect a vehicle is unsafe, contact the following authorities immediately:

Office	Contact Number
JB Marks Traffic Department (Potch)	018 299 5330
Provincial Traffic (Potch Station)	018 299 5969
Department Toll-Free Complaint Line	0800 204 992
SAPS Emergency	10111

Watch JB Marks Facebook Video here: https://www.facebook.com/reel/1432762435109478

The Road Ahead

The municipality has emphasized that these operations are not a temporary measure but a sustained effort to change the culture of transport safety in the region. By holding operators accountable and empowering parents with information, JB Marks aims to ensure that "getting to school" is never a life-threatening journey. Local schools have also been encouraged to keep a registry of all private transporters to assist in future compliance audits.

As the 2026 academic year progresses, the message from Potchefstroom authorities remains clear: the safety of the next generation is a collective responsibility that begins with a roadworthy vehicle and a responsible driver.

#Thegotoguy#JBMarkSafety #PotchefstroomNews #ScholarTransport #RoadSafetyRSA

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