Gauteng Motorists: Brace Yourselves for Major Delays!
Gauteng motorists are being warned to expect significant traffic disruptions this Friday and Saturday as authorities conduct a 'dry run' in preparation for the upcoming G20 Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg next month. This large-scale operation will impact major routes across Tshwane, Johannesburg, and Ekurhuleni.
The exercise will involve temporary road closures, lane restrictions, and intermittent traffic stops, primarily affecting routes connecting key locations such as OR Tambo International Airport, Waterkloof Air Force Base, Lanseria Airport, Sandton, Pretoria, and Nasrec, where the summit will be held.
Which Roads Will Be Affected?
The joint operation, involving the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), Gauteng Traffic Police, JMPD, EMPD, TMPD, and SAPS, will focus on high-security routes. Expect delays on these major roads:
- N1
- N3
- N12
- M1
- R21
- R24
- R512
Specific closures will also occur on arterial roads like Rivonia Road, Grayston Drive, Jan Smuts Avenue, and Nasrec Road. Roads in Sandton, Rosebank, and Melrose will also be affected.
When Will the Closures Happen?
On Friday, closures will occur intermittently between 9:00 and 13:00 across Tshwane, Johannesburg, and Ekurhuleni. Saturday will see closures between 8:00 and 10:00, and again from 13:00 to 14:30 in Johannesburg.
Alternative Routes to Consider
Motorists are strongly advised to use alternative routes to avoid major delays. Consider the M57 as an alternative to the R21 between Johannesburg and Pretoria, and Beyers Naudé Drive instead of the R512 or N1 for west/northwest travel. For east-west travel, use regional roads through Germiston, Kempton Park, or Bedfordview instead of the R24/N12.
Plan your journeys carefully and allow for extra travel time. Emergency and essential services will be prioritized, but delays are inevitable for regular commuters.