Motorists, commuters and residents travelling through Johannesburg have been urged to plan ahead, as the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) has warned of significant traffic disruptions expected on Tuesday, June 30.

According to JMPD, three legally approved marches will take place simultaneously across the Johannesburg inner city, Hillbrow and Midrand (Glen Austin), with authorities anticipating widespread delays and road closures throughout the day.

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Integrated law enforcement teams, including JMPD and SAPS Public Order Policing, will be deployed across the city to monitor procession routes, manage traffic flow and ensure public safety.

“Significant traffic disruptions and delays are anticipated between 07:00 and 16:00. Furthermore, integrated law enforcement teams will remain on high alert and will be actively deployed to monitor and manage the entire city before, during and after June 30,” JMPD said in a statement.

The department said the proactive deployment aims to maintain law and order, ensure public safety, and respond swiftly to any spontaneous protests, pickets or gatherings that may arise.

Motorists have been strongly advised to avoid affected streets and use alternative routes where possible.

The first march, organised by March & March, will focus on inner-city safety, youth development and access to community services. An estimated 5,000 participants are expected to gather at Beyers Naudé Square before marching to Constitution Hill, where a memorandum will be handed over to the Hillbrow station commander.

The procession is scheduled to run from 10:00 to 14:00, along routes including Helen Joseph Street, Troye Street, Twist Street, Kotze Street and Queen Street.

The second march, organised by the Labour and Civic Organisation (LACO), is expected to attract around 1,200 participants. It will focus on concerns around illegal immigration policies and engagement with the Department of Home Affairs.

Participants will assemble at the intersection of Kotze and Hospital streets in Hillbrow before marching to the Department of Home Affairs on Plein Street, where a memorandum will be submitted. The march is expected to take place from 09:00 to 12:00.

In Midrand, the Mayibuye Youth Activism Movement will lead a labour-focused march highlighting youth employment concerns. About 800 participants are expected to gather at the open space at the corner of Dale and Modderfontein roads before proceeding to the Sandton Plant Hire offices to hand over a memorandum relating to local employment issues.

This procession will run from 10:00 to 12:00, with dispersal expected by 13:00.

JMPD has warned that rolling road closures and temporary barricades will be implemented along all approved routes as the marches progress.

Motorists are urged to exercise patience, comply with instructions from JMPD and other law enforcement officers on the ground, and, where possible, plan their travel outside the affected areas during the peak disruption period.