Protest action closes R59 near Meyerton
Burning tyres and rocks have once again brought traffic to a standstill on the R59 near Meyerton.
UPDATE 2025/08/06 – 13:00:
Traffic has returned to normal on the R59 highway near Meyerton after it was closed earlier this morning due to protest action. By 13:00, law enforcement confirmed that the road between Johan Le Roux and Meyer streets had been cleared and was once again open to motorists.
Earlier reports from community WhatsApp groups indicated that protesters had blocked the roadway with rocks and burning tyres, raising concerns about possible stone-throwing. Motorists were advised to avoid the area while emergency services monitored the situation.
Although the cause of this morning’s disruption is not yet officially confirmed, it appears to be linked to ongoing tensions around recent labour disputes and service delivery grievances in the area. Just a few days ago, workers halted traffic on the same stretch of the R59 amid a wage-related protest. Click on the link to read our previous story.
The R59 has become a flashpoint for repeated protest action in recent months, particularly near the Sicelo informal settlement. These disruptions have raised concerns about safety and economic impact, with commuters, freight companies and local businesses bearing the brunt of the closures.
Authorities are urging motorists to remain cautious and keep an eye on official traffic updates should unrest flare up again. For now, traffic is flowing freely and no injuries or arrests have been reported.
This remains a developing story.
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The R59 highway between the Vaal and Johannesburg has once again been closed due to protest action, with reports indicating the road is blocked between Johan Le Roux and Meyer streets near Meyerton.
According to information circulating on local community WhatsApp groups, protesters have obstructed the roadway with rocks and burning tyres. Some messages warn of stone-throwing in the area, raising safety concerns for motorists.
Emergency services have been alerted and are monitoring the situation. The Midvaal Local Municipality said in a statement issued at 11:45 that authorities are on the scene and managing the situation.
Residents were urged to avoid the area and use alternative routes.
The cause of the protest is not yet confirmed, but this section of the R59 has seen repeated disruptions in recent months due to service delivery protests, particularly near the Sicelo informal settlement.
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.
