Johannesburgers, brace yourselves! Major disruptions are expected on the roads as South Africa prepares to host the G20 Leaders’ Summit at Nasrec. Traffic authorities in Gauteng and the City of Joburg have issued urgent alerts regarding planned road closures and heightened police presence this weekend and the coming week.
Road Closures and Traffic Operations
Authorities have confirmed temporary closures and rolling traffic operations as security measures intensify. A coordinated traffic operation is scheduled for Saturday, 15 November 2025, between 09h00 and 13h00. Expect rolling road closures, lane restrictions, and intermittent diversions across major routes in Johannesburg.
The closures won't be static; traffic flow may be repeatedly interrupted along the same routes as convoys and security escorts pass through. The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), Gauteng Traffic Police (GTP), Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD), and the South African Police Service (SAPS) are working together to manage the situation.
Affected Routes
The following national highways are expected to be impacted:
- N1
- M1
- N12
Significant city and regional roads will also be part of the controlled traffic network, including:
- Jan Smuts Avenue
- Kathrine Street
- Athol Oaklands Road
- Winnie Mandela Drive
- Hendrick Potgieter Road
- The Golden Highway near Nasrec
- Areas around Melrose, Sandton, Rosebank, and the inner city
Alternative Routes
Motorists are strongly advised to plan ahead and utilize alternative routes where possible. Here are some suggestions:
- Roodepoort: Use Beyers Naudé Drive, Christiaan De Wet Road, or Ontdekkers Road instead of Hendrick Potgieter Road.
- Fourways: Consider Main Road, Cedar Road, and Witkoppen Road.
- Sandton, Rosebank, and Parktown: Use parallel side streets like Corlett Drive and Sandt.
Cleaning Up Joburg
Beyond the traffic disruptions, efforts are underway to address the state of Johannesburg's inner city ahead of the G20 summit. President Ramaphosa expressed concern about the city's cleanliness and the presence of derelict and hijacked buildings. Authorities are working to improve the situation, but significant challenges remain, including dealing with rubbish, open sewage, and criminal activity in neglected buildings.
Be patient, plan ahead, and stay informed about road closures and traffic updates to navigate the city smoothly during this busy period. Remember, these measures are essential to ensure the safety and security of both residents and world leaders attending the G20 Summit.