Durban has a bumper weekend planned for the upcoming Easter long weekend and all plans are in place to receive visitors and ensure that they have an unforgettable stay in the city.

From beach festivals to religious parades to action packed sport; Durban is the place to be this weekend. There will be plenty to enjoy on the beaches from Umhlanga to Amanzimtoti. Various churches will be hosting Easter parades to mark the religious celebration, the Hare Krishna festival will be taking place at the Durban Drive Inn site, and a fishing competition form Suncoast Beach to Virginia Beach is expected to draw more than 1500 fishing enthusiasts. An exciting rugby match between the Sharks and the Cheetahs is also on the cards.

Hotel occupancy rates are also at its peak going into the Durban winter season.

Mayor James Nxumalo said, "The Easter season is considered to be one of the important Christian holidays. We welcome all who celebrate this occasion in our city. May this time of renewal invigorate your spirit and strengthen your faith."

He also cautioned motorists to obey the rules of the road and arrive safely.

"Road safety is everyone's responsibility, so I appeal to all motorists to exercise extreme caution while travelling on the road, obey speed limits, fasten your seatbelts, do not drive under the influence of alcohol, ensure that your vehicle is roadworthy and be patience with other road users. The loss of one life is one too many."

Metro Police officers and other law enforcement agencies are on the alert to deal with the high traffic volumes expected in the province. They will not hesitate to act decisively against those who break the law.

Head of the Communications Unit, Ms Tozi Mthethwa said, "Metro Police plans are in place and extra staff has been deployed to strategic positions where a high traffic volume is experience during this time. Metro Police will be conducting various roadblocks to ensure that a safe traffic environment is maintained. We urge drivers to adhere to the rules of the road and not to drink and drive."

Equally, commuters using public transport vehicles are urged to ensure that they use roadworthy vehicles with properly licensed drivers and to report any misbehaviour whether drunk driving or speeding. Unroadworthy and unsafe vehicles will be suspended and impounded pending rectification of identified faults. To report any traffic incident, the number to dial is 031-3610000 all hours.

ENDS

For more information contact the Municipal Spokesperson, Mr. Thabo Mofokeng, on 031 311 4820 or 082 731 7456 or e-mail thabo1.mofokeng@durban.gov.za