The Joburg Metro Police have warned the public and motorists about high traffic volumes as a result of the rugby match between the Springboks and All Blacks. Picture: David Ritchie
As rugby fans prepare for the eagerly anticipated match between the South Africa’s Springboks and New Zeleand’s All Blacks, high traffic volumes are expected in Johannesburg as people flock to the stadium.
The heavy traffic congestion will be caused by fans flocking to watch the match taking place on Saturday, August 31 at Ellis Park.
The Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) has alerted the public and motorists about major traffic disruptions expected around the game venue.
JMPD spokesperson Xolani Fihla said starting from 10pm on Friday, until Saturday, August 31, several roads near the stadium will be affected.
He said affected roads will include the Joe Slovo Drive, Sivewright Avenue, Currey Street, Beit Street, Siemert Road, Charlton Terrace, Van Beek Street, and Suzie Street.
The Bertrams Road, Albertina Sisulu Road, Saratoga Avenue, Erin Street, Miller Street, Voorhout Street, and 4th Street will also be affected.
Fihla said the following intersections will be closed to accommodate the match:
-Albertina Sisulu Road and Gous Street
-Albertina Sisulu Road and Dawe Street
-Albertina Sisulu Road and Princess Street
-Bertrams Road and Voorhout Street
-Bertrams Road and Fitzroy Street
-Bertrams Road and Erin Street
-Charlton Terrace and Van Beek Street
-Sivewright Avenue and Suzie Street
-Sivewright Avenue and Currey Street
-Sivewright Avenue and Beit Street
-Upper Railway Road and Miller Street
-Siemert Road and Currey Street
Additionally, he said the Beit Street and Dora Street, Beit/Park Road and Erin Street, Miller Street and 9th Street, Miller Street and Park Road, South Park Parkade, South Park Lane and 5th Street, Miller Street and South Park Lane /4th Street intersections will be closed.
Fihla urged motorists to use the M1 and M2 Highways as alternatives, and to avoid the area.
“To alleviate traffic congestion and enhance the overall match-day experience, a dedicated park-and-ride system will be in operation,” he said.
He said those who will be using the the park-and-ride bus services to go to the match, the buses will operate from 1pm to 3pm and again from 7pm to 8.30pm.
“VIP attendees will have access to dedicated parking within the Ellis Park Parkade and Johannesburg Stadium.”
He cautioned that parking at the stadium will be limited, and encouraged spectators to use the park-and-ride system.
“Gautrain and Prasa train services will be available to transport spectators from Park Station to the Ellis Park Train Station.”
He added that e-hailing services will be available for drop-offs and pick-ups at a designated area on Wolmarans Street, in Braamfontein, from 11am to 10.30pm, as well within the stadium precinct at Fitzroy Street and Bertrams Road, New Doornfontein.
“Rea Vaya bus services will also be operational on the day,” he added.
He said the gates will open at 12pm, with the match kicking-off at 5pm.
Fihla urged all road users to cooperate with traffic authorities, adhere to traffic regulations, and exercise patience during this time.
“We urge motorists to familiarise themselves with the traffic management plan and allow extra travel time,” he said.
IOL