Authorities have warned that the situation remains tense as officers work to manage traffic and maintain public safety.
Motorists have been urged to avoid the N12 in the Lenasia area after a service delivery protest brought traffic to a standstill. For Illustrative purposes only. Picture: The Citizen
The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) says traffic is gradually returning to normal following the protest near Nana’s Farm and Lenasia.
Authorities are clearing roads affected by the unrest, including K43 (Klipspruit Valley Road) and Abubakar Asvat Drive, of rocks, debris, and burnt obstacles, with traffic moving slowly. Protesters have dispersed from the N12 Freeway, and authorities are in the final stages of reopening the route in both directions.
Traffic
JMPD spokesperson Xolani Fihla said that while law enforcement remains deployed to maintain order, motorists should drive cautiously as cleanup operations continue.
“Congestion is still expected on surrounding routes, including the R554 (Nirvana Drive) and Golden Highway (R553).
Protest
Earlier, motorists were urged to avoid parts of Lenasia after a protest sparked major traffic disruptions, forcing the closure of the N12 freeway in both directions and several key routes.
Authorities warned the situation remains tense as officers work to manage traffic and maintain public safety.
Fihla said the protest flared up at Nana’s Farm in Lenasia on Monday, resulting in widespread road closures affecting commuters travelling between Lenasia, Eldorado Park, Soweto and Johannesburg South.
K43
Access on the K43 was also blocked or severely restricted near the N12 interchange, while Abubakar Asvat Drive has been closed to both incoming and outgoing traffic.
“JMPD officers are on site to control traffic and manage the disturbance. The situation remains highly tense. Motorists are strictly urged to stay clear of the area for their safety,” Fihla said.
The closures have created significant challenges for commuters travelling through southern Johannesburg, with traffic expected to remain heavily affected while authorities monitor developments.
Alternate routes
Fihla advised motorists travelling between Lenasia, Eldorado Park, Soweto, and Johannesburg South to make use of alternative routes to avoid delays and congestion.
“Motorists travelling between Lenasia, Eldorado Park, Soweto, and Johannesburg South must bypass the affected zone using the R554 (Nirvana Drive), Golden Highway (R553), Chris Hani Road, and the Main Road through Eldorado Park,” he said.
Authorities have appealed to road users to remain patient, follow traffic directives, and use the designated alternative routes as they continue efforts to stabilise the situation.
JMPD officers remain deployed in the area and will provide updates as conditions change.
