As Gauteng gears up to host the G20 Summit, motorists should brace for Saturday road closures and traffic alerts across key Johannesburg routes. On 15 November 2025, between 09h00 and 13h00, several high-traffic areas will experience temporary road closures, lane restrictions, and rolling lockdowns due to heightened security operations.
Coordinated by the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), Gauteng Traffic Police (GTP), Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) and the South African Police Service (SAPS), this joint operation aims to ensure the safety of delegates, the public, and local infrastructure during the summit.
Why the Road Closures Are Happening
The G20 Leaders’ Summit is a major international event that brings together heads of state, finance ministers, and policymakers. With security as a top priority, temporary closures are necessary around venues and transport corridors in Johannesburg.
According to RTMC spokesperson Simon Zwane, “These operations are part of our broader security strategy to support a safe and well-organised G20 Summit.”
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G20 Summit: Key Areas Affected
The following areas will see significant road closures and traffic slowdowns:
Nasrec and Surrounds
- M1 Southbound
- Nasrec Road & Rand Show Road
- Eldorado Park Offramp
- Golden Highway
- Soweto Highway
- Booysens Reserve Road
Sandton & Central Johannesburg
- 5th Street, Maude Street, Daisy Street
- Rivonia Road
- Grayston Drive
- Whiteley Road
- Melrose Boulevard
- Corlett Drive
- Athol Oaklands Road
- Oxford Road
- Glenhove Road
- Jan Smuts Avenue
These roads are part of critical summit transport routes and will face rolling lockdowns, with some fully shut during motorcade movements.
Expected Disruptions and Delays
- Travel Times: Expect delays of 15 to 30 minutes in affected zones.
- Public Transport: Some bus and taxi routes may be diverted.
- Pedestrian Access: Limited in Sandton CBD and Nasrec precinct.
Official Advisory from Authorities
Motorists and residents are urged to:
- Plan ahead and avoid unnecessary travel between 09h00 and 13h00.
- Use alternative routes provided by Gauteng traffic officials.
- Stay updated via live traffic apps and @GTP_Traffic on X (formerly Twitter).
These measures aim to minimise disruption while prioritising emergency access and summit security.
Alternative Routes Recommended by GTP
If you’re travelling in or around Johannesburg on Saturday, consider these options:
Southern Johannesburg (Nasrec, Riverlea, Ormonde View)
- Chris Hani Road
- Main Reef Road
- Crownwood Road (Fordsburg–Crown Mines)
- Soweto Highway
- N17
- Aerodrome Road
- Adcock Ingram Road
Sandton / Rosebank / Parktown
- Sandton Drive
- 11th Avenue
- Corlett Drive
- Cedar Road and Witkoppen Road (for Fourways area)
Roodepoort
- Beyers Naudé Drive
- Ontdekkers Road
- Christiaan De Wet Road
These alternatives are expected to have less congestion and will be monitored by officers on the ground.
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Public Transport & Emergency Services
While some public transport routes will face delays, essential services, including ambulances, police, and fire departments, will have uninterrupted access. JMPD will deploy traffic marshals and ensure signage is visible across impacted intersections.
Real-Time Updates and Travel Tools
You can track route changes and congestion through:
- Google Maps and Waze
- @JoburgMPD and @GTP_Traffic on X
- RTMC’s official website www.rtmc.co.za
For updates on closures, listen to traffic reports on Radio 702 and Metro FM.
Community Reactions and Preparedness
Local businesses in Sandton have been advised to allow employees to work remotely. A Sandton hotel manager noted, “We’re increasing shuttle times for guests and alerting them about the closures well in advance.”
Similarly, logistics firms in the south of Joburg have adjusted delivery schedules to avoid peak restriction times.
FAQs: G20 Summit Traffic Alerts
Will the closures affect OR Tambo International Airport access?
No, airport access via the N3 and R24 remains open. However, delays may occur due to diverted traffic.
Can I cross Jan Smuts Avenue during the closure window?
Only at select points. Officers will guide local access, but delays are expected.
Are schools and clinics in the area closed?
Most schools will remain open, but some may close early or shift to online learning. Contact your local institution for details.
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Plan Ahead for a Smoother Saturday
The G20 Summit is a significant global event, and its successful hosting reflects positively on Gauteng and South Africa. However, with the planned Saturday road closures and traffic alerts, it’s crucial to stay informed and flexible.
We encourage residents and motorists to check routes in advance, allow extra travel time, and cooperate with law enforcement.
