POLOKWANE – Motorists can expect heavy traffic on major routes around Polokwane this weekend as thousands of pilgrims travel to Moria for the annual Zion Christian Church (ZCC) pilgrimage from September 4-6.

The Limpopo Department of Transport and Community Safety expects more than 4 000 buses, along with midi- and minibuses from neighbouring Botswana, Zimbabwe and Namibia, to make their way to Moria.

Routes to watch

Traffic is expected to increase from Friday night, particularly along:

• N1 northbound from Gauteng and southbound from Musina and Makhado
• N11 from Groblersbridge, connecting to the R567 towards Polokwane or the D19 Matlala Road
• N1 southbound from Beitbridge towards Polokwane

The R37, D4040 and N1 Bypass towards the R71 are also expected to experience increased traffic from Friday, with heavy volumes anticipated again on Sunday afternoon as pilgrims return home.

Traffic enforcement

Provincial traffic officers will be deployed along major routes to manage traffic and enforce road safety measures.

Motorists are urged to plan for delays, remain patient, and follow instructions from law enforcement officers.