Traffic chaos expected as 5,000 Member march leads three major protests in Johannesburg
Image: Itumeleng English / Independent Newspapers
Johannesburg motorists have been warned to brace for major traffic disruptions across the city centre and parts of Midrand on June 30, as three legally approved marches involving thousands of participants are set to take place simultaneously.
The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) said the largest gathering is expected to be a March & March procession, which is anticipated to draw about 5,000 participants through the Johannesburg CBD and Hillbrow precinct. The march forms part of three separate demonstrations expected to affect traffic between 7am and 4pm.
The JMPD warned that "significant traffic disruptions and delays are anticipated between 7am and 4pm" as law enforcement agencies deploy heavily across affected areas.
The March & March procession will assemble at Beyers Naudé Square before proceeding through several inner-city streets en route to Constitution Hill, where participants are expected to submit a memorandum to the Hillbrow Station Commander.
According to organisers, the march aims to promote inner-city safety, youth development and improved access to community services "to ensure a universal sense of safety and security".
A second march, organised by the Labour and Civic Organisation (LACO), is expected to attract approximately 1,200 participants.
The procession will move from the Constitution Hill area to the Department of Home Affairs in Plein Street, where demonstrators intend to raise concerns about illegal immigration policies and engaging government officials.
Meanwhile, around 800 participants are expected to take part in a labour march organised by the Mayibuye Youth Activism Movement in Glen Austin, Midrand. The group plans to submit a memorandum to Sandton Plant Hire offices regarding local youth employment opportunities.
The JMPD said integrated law enforcement teams, including SAPS Public Order Policing units, will be deployed throughout the day to monitor the demonstrations, manage traffic flow and maintain public order.
"Integrated law enforcement teams will remain on high alert and will be actively deployed to monitor and manage the entire city before, during, and after the 30th of June," the statement said.
Authorities added that the proactive deployment is intended to ensure public safety and allow for a swift response to "any other spontaneous protests, pickets, or gatherings that may arise during this period".
Motorists have been urged to avoid affected routes where possible as rolling road closures and temporary barricades will be implemented along the approved march routes.
"Motorists are strongly advised to avoid the affected streets and use alternative routes where possible," the JMPD said.
The metro police further appealed for patience from road users, warning that closures and rolling barricades would be enforced as the processions move through the city.
"Please exercise extreme patience, follow the directions of JMPD and law enforcement officers on the ground, or plan your travel outside the inner city during these times," the statement said.
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