South Africa: Protesters block N3 highway in Durban September 2

Event

Protesters blocked the N3 highway in the Berea West area of Durban on Wednesday, September 2, causing major traffic disruptions in the west of the city. Demonstrators reportedly parked several trucks and other vehicles across the highway between the Pavilion Mall and Spaghetti Junction, blocking both carriageways. The cause of the protest is currently unclear, but local sources report that the action may be linked to groups campaigning against coronavirus disease (COVID-19) restrictions.

The protest comes two days after striking public transport workers used similar tactics to block several major roads in Durban, causing significant disruptions.

Further protests and associated disruptions are likely in the city in the near term.  

Advice

Those in Durban are advised to monitor developments, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, plan alternative routes if traveling, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities. Travelers encountering a protest or roadblock should never attempt to drive through it, as such actions may provoke a violent response from demonstrators, including attacks on vehicles.