Central SA
Motorists warned of heavy traffic, lane closures as schools reopen─── ZENANDE MPAME 11:44 Sat, 10 Jan 2026
As the holiday season comes to an end, the police have urged all motorists and travellers returning home to prioritise road safety and responsible driving.
Traffic volumes are anticipated to increase significantly on major routes as families and holiday-makers travel back home after the festive season. Police have urged motorists to drive responsibly and be mindful of road safety.
Motorists have been warned to prepare for heavy traffic as the holiday period draws to a close and schools reopen on Wednesday (10/1). Road users are advised to plan their trips carefully, allow sufficient time for travel, and ensure their vehicles are in good condition before embarking on their long journeys.
The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has warned law enforcement officers will maintain high levels of visibility.
“We want to remind drivers to obey traffic laws at all times, adhere to speed limits, and avoid reckless and negligent driving behaviour,” said Northern Cape police spokesperson Thabo Litabe.
“Such as overtaking on dangerous parts of the road and curves. Fatigue remains a major contributing factor to road accidents. Drivers are encouraged to take regular rest breaks and to share driving responsibilities where possible.”
IOL reports the N3 Toll Concession (N3TC) has confirmed its construction and route maintenance teams have resumed work along various sections of the highway. Although the programme is not yet operating at full capacity, several lane closures are already affecting traffic flow.
Between KwaZulu-Natal and the Free State, motorists can expect daytime lane closures on Saturday (10/1) between the Keeversfontein Interchange and Van Reenen.
Seatbelts
Pedestrians are also urged to exercise caution when crossing roads, particularly in high traffic areas, and to wear visible clothing when walking at night.
Passengers are also encouraged to always wear seatbelts and to report unsafe driving to the authorities.
“Motorists are advised to avoid travelling at night as evidence shows most deadly crashes happen after sunset and in the early hours of the morning,” said RTMC spokesperson Simon Zwane.
“Travel data analysed since the start of the festive season road safety campaign shows 21% of fatal crashes happen between 19:00 and 22:00 and 6% between midnight and 01:00.”
These are the times when most head-on collisions have taken place, claiming many lives, he said.
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