The final day of the G20 Summit is underway, and Johannesburg motorists are being warned to brace for severe traffic disruptions as delegates depart the country.
The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) says rolling closures remain in effect across the city, with highways and major arterial routes expected to be shut down intermittently to allow VIP convoys to pass. Each closure may halt traffic for 30 to 60 minutes at a time.
JMPD spokesperson Superintendent Xolani Fihla urged motorists to plan accordingly, saying:
“We are urging motorists to plan ahead and avoid major routes where possible. The highway network is under immense pressure due to G20 convoy movements, and even a minor accident can trigger widespread gridlock.”
Peak Disruption Times
Authorities say the most significant delays can be expected during:
Morning: 07:00 – 12:00
Evening: 15:00 – 20:00
Confirmed Road Closures for Sunday
Nasrec Precinct (Summit Venue):
Nasrec Road: Closed between Rand Show Road and Shaft 17 Road
Rand Show Road: Northern section closed between the N1 and Nasrec Road
Golden Highway: Closed between Rand Show Road and Soweto Highway
Booysens Reserve Road: Closed near Crownwood Road
Sandton and Rosebank:
Motorists should anticipate intermittent closures and delays on:
Grayston Drive
Rivonia Road
Maude Street
Oxford Road
Jan Smuts Avenue
These areas continue to experience frequent VIP movements between hotels and summit engagements.
Severe Weather to Worsen Conditions
Weather authorities have issued a warning for severe thunderstorms across Gauteng. JMPD warns that the combination of wet roads, poor visibility and heavy summit-related congestion will significantly increase the risk of crashes.
Drivers are urged to keep headlights on, increase following distance and exercise caution.
Highway Network Under Pressure
While no major new highway blockages had been reported by Sunday morning, officials said the network remains “extremely fragile,” with any minor incident likely to cause widespread delays.
Recommended Alternative Routes
Motorists are encouraged to avoid the N1, M1, N12, R21 and R24 where possible and consider the following alternatives:
Roodepoort:
Beyers Naudé Drive
Christiaan De Wet Road
Ontdekkers Road
Sandton/North:
Smaller side streets parallel to Rivonia Road and Oxford Road
South of Johannesburg:
Chris Hani Road
Main Reef Road
Soweto Highway (where open)
