PUTCO Hosts Driver Safety Workshop in South Africa Ahead of Easter Travel Surge

Bus operator PUTCO has held a defensive driving workshop in Dobsonville, Soweto, as part of preparations for the upcoming Easter long weekend, which is expected to see increased passenger movement across routes.

The session brought together over 600 drivers and forms part of the company’s efforts to reinforce road safety awareness during a period typically marked by heavy traffic and higher travel demand. Many major church groups are expected to rely on the service for bulk transportation during the holiday.

The workshop, held at PUTCO’s Dobsonville depot, focused on road safety and responsible driving practices. It also featured participation from key stakeholders, including the Road Accident Fund (RAF), the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD), and provincial traffic authorities, who provided insights into current road conditions and safety challenges on South African roads.

PUTCO spokesperson Lindokuhle Xulu explained that the initiative is not intended to retrain drivers, but rather to reinforce existing skills and prepare them for the pressures associated with peak travel periods.

According to Xulu, the engagement also aims to expose drivers to real-time road safety trends and risks, drawing on the experience of partner organisations with direct knowledge of traffic conditions across the country.