Motorists have been urged to avoid parts of Robertsham and Crown Gardens in Johannesburg South following public protests over persistent water outages.
The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) has warned of severe traffic disruptions after residents barricaded roads with burning tyres and debris.
JMPD spokesperson Superintendent Xolani Fihla said Xavier Street at Kimberly Miner Road was completely blocked in both directions.
“Residents have barricaded roads with burning tyres and debris in protest over persistent water outages affecting the surrounding southern suburbs,” said Fihla.
He said access to and from the M1 freeway via the Xavier Street on-ramps and off-ramps was also severely restricted.
Motorists travelling through Johannesburg South have been advised to avoid Xavier Street and use alternative routes to minimise delays.
“Motorists travelling through or around Johannesburg South are strongly urged to avoid Xavier Street,” said Fihla.
Suggested alternative routes include Kliprivier Drive (R556) and Booysens Road.
For east-west travel, motorists can use Crownwood Road, Rifle Range Road (M68) or the N12 Southern Bypass.
Residents needing access to Robertsham, Crown Gardens and Winchester Hills have been advised to use alternative routes via Alamein Road or Ormonde Drive where roads are clear.
Fihla urged motorists to exercise caution when approaching the affected areas.
“Drive with extreme care, keep doors locked, windows up, and remain vigilant when approaching the perimeter of the affected zones,” he said.
Commuters have also been warned to expect significant delays, particularly during peak commuting hours, and to allow extra travel time.
The traffic disruptions were reported in a JMPD advisory issued on Thursday evening.
