Expect delays: Heavy traffic forecast for Limpopo’s N1 routes
Road safety officials have issued an appeal to drivers as holiday and month-end travel combine to increase traffic pressure.
POLOKWANE – Motorists travelling on the N1 and other major routes in Limpopo are being urged to prepare for heavy traffic volumes as the convergence of school holidays and month-end travel places pressure on the province’s road network.
High traffic expected on key routes
The Limpopo Department of Transport and Community Safety says congestion is expected to be particularly heavy on Sunday (June 28), especially on the southbound N1 route towards Gauteng as holidaymakers and other travellers return home.
Other major routes across the province are also expected to experience increased traffic flow throughout the day
Mokopane traffic volumes show steady increase
Traffic monitoring at Mokopane between 10:00 and 14:00 shows a steady rise in vehicle movement, particularly in the southbound direction.
Southbound traffic increased sharply from 901 vehicles at 10:00 to 1 932 vehicles at 14:00, reflecting the peak of returning holiday traffic.
Northbound traffic remained significantly lighter but also showed steady movement, starting at 457 vehicles at 10:00 and reaching 675 vehicles at 14:00.
Officials say these figures highlight the growing pressure on the N1 as the day progresses, particularly during peak return travel times.
Traffic officials placed on high alert
In preparation for the busy travel period, the department has placed all traffic law enforcement officers and emergency response teams on 24-hour high alert.
Officials will be deployed along key routes, weighbridges and toll plazas to improve visibility, assist with traffic flow and respond quickly to incidents where necessary.
Road safety appeal to motorists
Motorists have been urged to exercise patience and caution, particularly at toll plazas where long queues are expected.
The department warned that reckless behaviour such as aggressive driving, queue-jumping and road rage not only increases delays but also puts lives at risk.
Safety tips for travellers
Road users are encouraged to take the following precautions before and during their journeys:
- Ensure vehicles are roadworthy by checking tyres, brakes, lights and licence discs.
- Obey all traffic laws, including speed limits, and avoid drinking and driving or using mobile phones while driving.
- Get adequate rest before travelling and take regular breaks to prevent fatigue.
- Plan trips in advance and allow extra travel time due to expected congestion.
Shared responsibility for road safety
The department has wished all motorists a safe journey and reminded road users that road safety is a shared responsibility requiring patience, discipline and cooperation from all travellers.
