Durban CBD Pedestrian Safety kicks off in October Transport Month
Awareness around pedestrian road safety is a focal point during October Transport Month including education and engagement with pedestrians at high traffic public areas in the central business district (CBD).
In the last five (5) years, 153 pedestrians have lost their lives lost their lives due to road crashes in the Durban CBD. In response, the eThekwini Transport Authority (ETA) is implementing initiatives to improve pedestrian safety through awareness campaigns and road safety-related infrastructure projects.
Projects will include Traffic Calming measures such as raised intersections and raised pedestrian crossings to reduce vehicle speeds; Pedestrian Nibs or Kerb Extensions to improve visibility and reduce crossing distances; and Infrastructure Improvements designed to meet the International Road Assessment Programme (iRAP) 3-star safety rating, ensuring that the delivery is in line international standards of pedestrian safety. These interventions will be implemented on the main streets within the CBD.
The implementation of the infrastructure projects will be rolled out over the next 5 years commencing in January 2026 on roads surrounding the City Hall at an estimated cost of R27million.
The projects identified are in direct response to challenges currently being experienced in the city centre such as high red-light violations, reckless and negligent driver behaviour, speeding, illegal stopping and parking of vehicles, not following the general road rules and pedestrian jaywalking. These poor driver behaviours increase the risk of accidents and are contributing to the high accident rate within the CBD.
To support the new physical upgrades, the eThekwini Transport Authority will roll out customised pedestrian road safety awareness campaigns specific to the new infrastructure, aimed at educating the public on safe crossing practices, promoting responsible pedestrian behaviour and engaging communities through the media, events and interactive outreach programs.
The eThekwini Municipality encourages all residents, pedestrians and motorists to play their part in making the City’s roads safer. Together, we can make Durban’s CBD a safer and more inclusive space for everyone.
