Sunninghill residents face traffic delays during election readiness drill
Strict airspace restrictions and temporary road closures take effect as emergency services prepare for the upcoming polls.
Sunninghill residents and motorists can expect increased police presence, aerial operations, and traffic disruptions on October 28, as the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) and partner law enforcement agencies conducts a pre-election safety and security readiness exercise.
The operation, scheduled to run from 08:00 to 16:00, aims to test the operational readiness of multi-agency security forces ahead of the upcoming elections. According to a public safety advisory issued by the JMPD on October 27, the operation will involve tactical movements on the ground and in the air. “This combined tactical exercise is designed to test and ensure maximum operational readiness of multi-agency security forces ahead of the upcoming elections,” the advisory states.
Read more: Traffic lights strike in satirical resident letter
Road closures and traffic impact
Motorists travelling through Sunninghill should prepare for disruptions on Tambach Road and Rivonia Road while the exercise is under way. Only one lane will be available on Tambach Road, where local businesses are located.
The JMPD warned that the entire roadway will be closed for short periods to accommodate response vehicles.
On Rivonia Road, one lane will be closed off between Leeuwkop Road and Witkoppen Road. The department advised motorists to expect delays, exercise caution, and use alternative routes where possible.
Airspace restrictions and community safety
The exercise will also affect local airspace. The area has been designated a strict no-fly zone, prohibiting drones and other unmanned aerial vehicles. Residents and business owners can expect an increased presence of law enforcement personnel, tactical vehicles, and aircraft throughout the day.
Also read: Fourways traffic light frustration continues despite repair notice
Despite the visible security presence, the JMPD stressed that the operation should not cause alarm. “This exercise is purely a controlled joint readiness training exercise. There is no active threat or danger to the community,” the advisory states.
The department thanked the Sunninghill community and the public for their patience, understanding, and co-operation.
Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates!
