24 Feb 2023 | 02:57 PM UTC
South Africa: Heavy congetsion from truck backlog along N2 highway in KwaZulu-Natal Province towards Richard's Bay, Feb. 24
Heavy congestion from truck backlog along N2 highway towards Richard's Bay, South Africa, Feb. 24. Likely transport disruptions.
Event
Backlog of coal trucks is reportedly causing heavy congestion along the N2 towards Richard's Bay port in KwaZulu-Natal Province (KZN), Feb. 24. This is possibly due to an increased demand for coal shipped from the port, and to the increased traffic generated by the ongoing naval exercises between the South African, Chinese and Russian navies through Feb. 25. Reports suggest that Transnet, the port's operator, has requested freight trucks stop traveling towards Richard's Bay until Feb. 25.
The backlog will likely cause significant transport disruptions in northern coastal parts of KZN in the coming days, especially along the N2 and the adjacent R34. Security forces could deploy to monitor the situation. The risk of road accidents will likely increase as drivers could attempt dangerous maneuvers to avoid congestion. Opportunistic looters could target stationary vehicles, including both private and cargo transport vehicles.
Advice
Consider avoiding impacted routes until the situation stabilizes. Consider avoiding using Richard's Bay port for shipment for the time being. Heed the instructions of officials. Reconfirm the status of road routes before departure.
