The R536, a vital artery leading to the world-renowned Kruger National Park, was reopened to traffic on December 15 following a disruptive protest by construction workers.

The road was blocked earlier today by labourers tarring a road in Cork Village.

Protesters used piles of soil to obstruct the route, causing delays for commuters and tourists.

The demonstration was sparked by a dispute over the timing of December wages.

According to Fhumulani Thovhakale, the spokesperson for the Bushbuckridge Local Municipality, the protest stemmed from a disagreement over an existing payment schedule.

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“Protesters demanded their December wages be paid immediately (Monday, December 15). An agreement was reportedly put in place to issue payments this coming Friday, December 19. The contractor is currently measuring completed work to finalise the payroll by Wednesday, December 17,” she said.

Thovhakale noted that the workers had received a payment as recently as last Friday, December 12, making their sudden demand for additional wages unexpected.

“We are happy that the road has been reopened and we hope that the workers will resolve their problems without disrupting traffic,” Thovhakale said.

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The local government had appealed to the labourers and stakeholders to keep the road open while negotiations continued, emphasising the importance of the R536 for the local economy and visiting tourists.

While traffic is flowing once again, police are currently on-site monitoring the area to ensure that no further disruptions occur and that the situation remains peaceful.