Motorists using an illegal third lane along the R55 near Kyalami Corner to escape traffic congestion are raising safety concerns, with reckless driving putting other road users at risk.

Congestion along Pitts Avenue (R55) near Kyalami Corner and the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit is pushing motorists onto an informal track along a pedestrian walkway.

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The unauthorised route, running alongside the road between Kyalami Estate and Kyalami Race Track, has effectively created an illegal third lane used by taxis and private motorists bypassing stationary traffic.

Danny Maduray, CEO of Ria Sebetsa Security Services, said the situation creates severe hazards for road users.

“Between Kyalami Estate and Kyalami Race Track, there’s been a third lane. Not actually a third lane. It’s an illegal third lane that has been created by motorists, especially taxis, and now, recently, our normal civilians are taking advantage of this illegal lane,” said Maduray.

He described the route as a dirt or corrugated road, adding that the growing use of the informal lane contributes to congestion and air pollution.

“This is causing a lot of congestion in traffic, number one, and a lot of pollution. There’s a lot of pollution because the cars or taxis are driving on the dirt road, on sand, and visibility is very poor,” he said.

Maduray warned that dust raised by vehicles reduces visibility for motorists along the route and increases collision risks, adding that people are unable to see.

The safety concerns come as commuters experience ongoing delays along the major artery connecting Johannesburg, Midrand, and Pretoria.

JMPD spokesperson Superintendent Xolani Fihla previously confirmed that the department was aware of persistent congestion along the route.

“This route is a major artery that carries a high volume of vehicles, especially during peak morning and evening times,” said Fihla.

He attributed the traffic backlog to high commuter volumes travelling between Johannesburg, Midrand, and Pretoria, alongside infrastructure capacity constraints during busy periods.

According to Fihla, JMPD has received complaints about delays and monitors traffic patterns and public feedback to inform deployment strategies.

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He said officers are regularly deployed to manage traffic along the R55, but manpower shortages prevent the department from maintaining a daily physical presence at the location.

Fihla added that JMPD works with OUTsurance’s Traffic Free Flow initiative to improve traffic movement and safety along the route.

On September 22, JMPD was approached for comment on reported reckless driving, the use of the informal third lane, and whether congestion contributes to unsafe driving practices.

The department’s response will be published once received.

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