Following the accident on the N12 that left a truck overturned and its load of coal scattered across the roadway immediately after the Kliprivier Drive off-ramp, authorities have confirmed that the N12 East is completely closed.

The crash occurred shortly after a fatal incident earlier in the morning, where two people were killed and three others injured at around 04:05 on the N12 Comaro on-ramp, eastbound.

Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) spokesperson Xolani Fihla said motorists should be aware of a major incident resulting in the full closure of the N12 East freeway in Glenanda, just after the Kliprivier Drive off-ramp.

Fihla said the N12 Eastbound has been entirely shut down, with traffic being diverted off the freeway at Kliprivier Drive.

“The closure is indefinite while recovery operations and an extensive clean-up of the coal spillage are underway. Significant traffic congestion is anticipated in the immediate vicinity and surrounding feeder routes,” he said.

Fihla urged motorists to exercise patience and use alternative routes such as the M1 or Xavier Street.

ALSO READ: Heavy congestion on N12 East after truck jack-knifes

JMPD officers remain on the scene managing the diversion and assisting with traffic flow.

The road was still closed at the time of publication.

The N12 is a busy route used daily by scholars, workers, and residents running errands, making the closure especially disruptive for morning and afternoon commuters.

Road users and motorists are advised to remain cautious when travelling during severe weather or major incidents.

Safety tips for motorists:

• Reduce speed and increase following distance in poor visibility.
• Avoid driving through standing water or debris on the roadway.
• Follow diversion signs and instructions from officers at the scene.
• Use alternative routes until authorities confirm the road is reopened.
• Stay updated through traffic alerts or official community channels.

ALSO READ: Deadly N12 Comaro on-ramp crash causes major morning backup