THE chairperson of the Athlone Park Community Police Sub-Forum (CPF) has thanked local volunteers who supported metro police in directing traffic while repairs were carried out on the Ezimbokodweni River N2 bridge.

Also watch: Watch: N2 Ezimbokodweni bridge opens to traffic

As one of the main alternative routes, Andrew Zondo Road which runs through Athlone Park, saw an influx of thousands of vehicles, large and small, passing through daily.

Rishane Rajkoomar, chairperson of the Athlone Park CPF, praised the dedication of the patrollers, who volunteered to help manage the flow of traffic, ensuring commuters could reach their destinations more quickly during the 16 days the bridge was under repair.

“We also want to thank the metro police for their exceptional efforts in managing traffic with limited resources during this period. The innovative approach they implemented, converting a section of Andrew Zondo Road into a one-way street, was highly effective and allowed residents to get home much sooner,” said Rajkoomar.

The significant increase in traffic through Athlone Park and the resulting confusion among drivers made it necessary to implement this traffic management solution at short notice. Earlier, there was a suggestion to open one northbound lane of the N2 to southbound traffic during peak hours to alleviate congestion. However, this idea was rejected by Sanral, who felt it would exacerbate the problem.

Rajkoomar also emphasised the importance of community involvement.

“While the police can’t be everywhere at all times, residents have a choice: they can either sit on the sidelines and complain, or they can step up and make a difference. This is what the CPF is all about,” he said.

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