This, as learners from Groblershoop High School blocked the main road between Groblershoop and Upington early this morning with burning tires, tree branches and stones in protest against alleged improper school transport.

Geoffrey of der Merwe says his department has evidence that the current transport provider has been paid until April this year, and that outstanding documentation on the part of the service provider led to no payment being made for May this year.

He says the department is currently in talks with the service provider to resolve the deadlock and make sure the situation returns to normal.

The SAPS' Public Order Unit and Highway Patrol have meanwhile been deployed to the area, where the situation is currently under control, to monitor the situation.

The department further called on school communities to do away with the disruption of learning, as it deprives children of education.

Update

The police in Barkley West has since said that the road has been opened to traffic. 

Police spokesperson Timothy Sam says although the road is open, the police are still monitoring the situation.

Motorists are still encouraged to drive carefully in the area.

OFM News/Roderick Titus