[UPDATE] Traffic resumes on N12 in both directions after protest causes traffic chaos in Lenasia | The Citizen

Motorists have been urged to avoid the N12 in the Lenasia area after a service delivery protest brought traffic to a standstill. For Illustrative purposes only.

Traffic has resumed on the N12 in Lenasia after law enforcement officers dispersed around 300 protesters who were allegedly throwing stones at passing vehicles during service delivery protests over electricity and water.

Motorists were urged to avoid the N12 in the Lenasia area after a service delivery protest brought traffic to a standstill and forced the freeway to close in both directions.

The road was closed between Abu Baker Asvat Drive and Klipspruit Valley Road on Monday morning as motorists headed to work.

The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) spokesperson, Xolani Fihla, said officers were deployed to manage traffic and divert motorists away from the affected section of the N12.

“JMPD and Saps Public Order Policing units restored traffic flow in both directions between Abu Baker Asvat Drive and K43 Klipspruit Valley Road. While authorities reopened major routes, they warned the situation remains tense, with small groups of protesters continuing to emerge sporadically.

“Officers remain on site to clear debris, secure the freeway and monitor potential flare-ups, while motorists have been urged to remain vigilant and consider alternative routes if necessary,” Fihla said.

Earlier, motorists travelling through Lenasia, Eldorado Park and surrounding areas were warned to expect severe traffic congestion and delays.

Fihla urged drivers not to attempt to access the freeway through the affected interchanges.

“Please refrain from attempting to access the N12 through the Abu Baker Asvat Drive or K43 off-ramps,” he said.

Fihla urged motorists to exercise extreme caution when travelling in the area and to remain patient while traffic officials work to manage the situation.

He said officers would issue further updates as they continue to monitor developments and work to ensure the affected stretch of the freeway remains safe.