Random roadworthy tests will be carried out at various Putco bus depots this week by the Gauteng Department of Community Safety.

The department will be very strict when conducting these tests and will confiscate any unroadworthy buses.

The department spokesman, Thapelo Moiloa, said plans to start the process at the Putco depots were finalised last week and that the department will come down hard on faulty vehicles.

“The [buses] found to be unroadworthy will be confiscated immediately,” he said.

This all comes after 19 people died in Meyerton last week and two others killed in Dobsonville in March, both accidents involving Putco buses.

These random tests will help ensure the safety of the many people using public transport in the country. Drivers need roadworthy and fully functioning vehicles to be able to enhance their own safety along with the safety of the passengers and other road users.