Traffic volumes are expected to increase sharply from Friday afternoon as travellers head to holiday destinations across several provinces. The RTMC is urging motorists to plan ahead, monitor weather conditions, and make road safety a priority.

Possible snowfall, freezing temperatures and icy roads could affect parts of Gauteng and other provinces. Reduced visibility, black ice, and slippery surfaces can significantly increase crash risks, especially during the early morning and late evening, RTMC spokesperson Simon Zwane said.

Law enforcement agencies will intensify operations nationwide, targeting speeding, reckless and negligent driving, alcohol and drug use, unroadworthy vehicles, overloading, driver fatigue, pedestrian safety and other road traffic offences during the long weekend.

Motorists should check tyres, lights, vehicle roadworthiness and documentation before travelling. Drivers have also been encouraged to allow sufficient travel time, take regular rest breaks, avoid distractions, and never drive while tired or under the influence.

Public transport operators must ensure their vehicles are roadworthy, licensed, and not overloaded. Drivers must have the correct licences, remain fit to drive, and comply with prescribed driving hours, Zwane said.

The N3 Toll Concession expects traffic volumes to rise from midday on Friday as travellers head towards destinations in KwaZulu-Natal, the Free State, Mpumalanga and Gauteng. Return traffic is expected to peak on Monday afternoon.

Roadworks could cause further delays on the N3 Toll Route. Construction is continuing between Heidelberg and Villiers, Warden and Harrismith, and Estcourt and Nottingham Road, with lane closures remaining in place during the long weekend.

At least one lane in each direction will remain open throughout the construction zones. Motorists have been urged to approach these areas cautiously and remain alert to strong winds, veld fires, and rapidly changing August weather conditions along rural sections.

Defensive driving remains essential, N3TC chief operating officer Thania Dhoogra said. Motorists should anticipate hazards, make safe decisions early, maintain enough space to react, and adjust their driving to prevailing road and weather conditions.

For real-time traffic information, motorists can follow @N3Route on X. Emergency assistance is available around the clock through the N3 Helpline on 0800 63 43 57.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi sm

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