This, following recent disruptive protests, incidents of criminality, and attempts to obstruct the free flow of traffic on some major transport networks around the country, including the N3 toll route.

“It is advisable to rather plan long distance trips during daylight hours,” N3TC commercial manager Con Roux said in a statement on Saturday.

Disruptive action by protesters, mostly aimed at the trucking industry, were often opportunistic and unpredictable, and mostly occurred under cover of darkness. This was also not limited to a specific area, location, or route, he said.

Motorists were urged to verify current travel conditions prior to departure with the 24-hour N3TC helpline on 0800-63-4357, and to report suspicious activity to the N3TC helpline on the same number. 

"Such activity could, among others, include stationary vehicles and trucks, pedestrian activity, groups of people assembling near or on highways, and objects being placed in the road.

"Road users should be particularly vigilant along sections of the route where roadworks and lane restrictions may cause congestion or near informal settlements. Safety is everyone’s concern," Roux said.

Although N3TC did not have law enforcement jurisdiction, its road incident management team worked closely with law enforcement and emergency services agencies to ensure safety and the free flow of traffic along the N3 toll route.

"South Africa’s road network forms the backbone of our economy. All support to help us ensure that our roads remain as safe as possible are appreciated,” Roux said.

ANA