South Africa: Bus drivers block major routes during protest in Durban August 31

Event

Striking bus drivers brought traffic to a standstill in the Durban area on Monday morning, August 31, in a protest over wages. The bus drivers have blocked the Kwa Mashu exit off the N2 highway to the M25, affecting traffic on these two roads as well as surrounding routes. Protests have also been reported in the EB Cloete interchange (known as Spaghetti Junction) and between the M19 and Umgeni Road, also disrupting traffic in these areas. Other routes in Durban and surrounding areas are reportedly heavily congested as a residual effect of the blockades erected by the bus drivers.

Further disruption to transport is expected in the area over the coming hours. Future similar protests are possible over the near term.

Advice

Individuals in Durban are advised to monitor developments of the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, prepare for consequent traffic disruptions, allow extra time for journeys, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.