Gauteng motorists, brace yourselves! Major traffic disruptions are expected across Johannesburg, Tshwane, and Ekurhuleni due to preparations for the upcoming G20 Leaders’ Summit in Nasrec next month. A large-scale joint traffic operation is underway, leading to temporary road closures and lane restrictions on key routes.
What Roads Are Affected?
Several arterial routes will be affected on Friday and Saturday. Expect intermittent closures and delays on major highways and local roads. Here's a breakdown:
Friday Closures: 09:00 - 13:00
Affected routes include the N1, N3, N12, M1, R21, R24 and R512.
Saturday Closures: 08:00 - 10:00 & 13:00 - 14:30
Expect disruptions on Rivonia Road, Grayston Drive, 5th Street, Maude Street, Daisy Street, Whiteley Road, Melrose Boulevard, Athol Oaklands Rd, Oxford Road, Glenhove Road, Jan Smuts Avenue, Rand Show Road, Nasrec Road, and the Golden Highway.
Why Are These Roads Closed?
These closures are part of a “dry run” to simulate the movement of world leaders' motorcades as they prepare for the G20 Summit. The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), Gauteng Traffic Police, JMPD, EMPD, TMPD, and SAPS are all involved in this joint operation.
Alternative Routes to Consider
Provincial Traffic Police spokesperson Obed Sibabsa urges motorists to use alternative routes. Consider these options:
- Johannesburg to Pretoria: Use the M57 instead of the R21.
- West/Northwest Travel: Opt for Beyers Naudé Drive instead of the R512 or N1.
- East-West Travel: Use regional roads through Germiston, Kempton Park, or Bedfordview instead of the R24/N12.
- Sandton, Rosebank, Parktown: Utilize side streets parallel to Jan Smuts, Oxford, Rivonia Road, Corlett Drive, Sandton Drive, 11th Avenue.
- Southern Johannesburg (Riverlea, Nasrec, Ormonde View): Use Chris Hani Road, Main Reef Road, Crown Wood Road.
Plan your trips accordingly and allow for extra travel time to avoid frustration during these temporary road closures. Stay tuned for further updates.