SAMWU March Causes Major Traffic Disruptions in Johannesburg CBD

Motorists urged to avoid Braamfontein and parts of the inner city as municipal workers march to the Johannesburg Central Magistrate’s Court.

Motorists travelling through Johannesburg’s inner city are being warned to expect significant traffic congestion and rolling road closures as members of the South African Municipal Workers’ Union (SAMWU) stage a march from Braamfontein to the Johannesburg Central Magistrate’s Court.

The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) says officers have been deployed along the route to manage traffic flow, escort demonstrators and ensure public safety throughout the protest.

Roads Expected to Be Affected

Authorities have identified several key roads and intersections that are likely to experience disruptions during the march.

Affected routes include:

• Nelson Mandela Bridge
• Queen Elizabeth Bridge
• Bertha Street
• Jan Smuts Avenue
• Simmonds Street
• Harrison Street
• Ntemi Piliso Street near the Johannesburg Central Magistrate’s Court

Motorists should also expect delays along Commission Street and Albertina Sisulu Road due to cross-traffic disruptions.

Rolling Road Closures in Place

JMPD spokesperson Xolani Fihla said law enforcement officers will implement temporary rolling road closures as the procession moves through the city.

The closures will be introduced and lifted as required to facilitate the movement of marchers while maintaining traffic flow where possible.

Following court proceedings, demonstrators are expected to return to Braamfontein using the same or nearby routes, potentially extending congestion into the afternoon.

Drivers Advised to Avoid CBD

The JMPD has strongly advised motorists to avoid the Braamfontein precinct and parts of the Johannesburg CBD if alternative routes are available.

Heavy congestion is expected around the court precinct and along major access roads leading into the city centre.

Alternative routes suggested by authorities include:

• M1 Highway
• Joe Slovo Drive
• Smit Street bypass routes
• Wolmarans Street alternatives

Extra Travel Time Recommended

Road users are encouraged to plan ahead and allow additional travel time for journeys through the affected areas.

Authorities have also urged motorists to:

• Reduce speed in congested areas
• Maintain safe following distances
• Follow instructions from traffic officers
• Remain patient during temporary closures

Reason for the March

The demonstration comes as SAMWU members continue expressing concerns over the payment of Political Facilitated Agreement (PFA) benefits agreed upon in 2016.

Union members have gathered in significant numbers, resulting in increased traffic pressure around major transport corridors leading into the city centre.

Officials are closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates as conditions change throughout the day.

For commuters, avoiding the CBD where possible remains the best option until the march concludes and traffic patterns return to normal.