Gauteng Traffic Police have deployed additional personnel at the Pumlani Toll Plaza in Pretoria in anticipation of increased traffic on the N1 as travelers head to their festive destinations.

Officials have been deployed to monitor the flow of traffic and ensure motorists adhere to the rules of the road.

SABC News reporter Nonhlanhla Ntshingila says traffic on the N1 is flowing steadily in both directions, with various vehicles, including cars, buses, and trucks making their way along the highway.

“Many vehicles are loaded with large luggage, indicating that people are embarking on holiday trips as the festive season gets underway and the first long weekend of December begins. However, traffic police are on high alert”, says Ntshingila.

Traffic volumes are expected to peak along major routes including the N1 between Pretoria to Polokwane, the N4 between Pretoria to Mpumalanga and Pretoria to Rustenburg.

MEDIA STATEMENT| Gauteng Traffic Police calls for vigilance and road safety ahead of the long weekend and festive season.#GrowingASaferGauteng pic.twitter.com/C4fHsiwL9h

— GP Department of Community Safety (@GP_CommSafety) December 13, 2024

Motorists are urged to be vigilant and obey the rules of the road ahead of this long weekend.

Gauteng Traffic Police spokesperson Sello Maremane says, “Motorists are advised to overtake other vehicles only when it is safe to do so and in compliance with the rules of the road. Passengers are advised not to carry large luggage with them which might overload public transport vehicles. Pedestrians must refrain from crossing freeways as this is illegal and unsafe to do so. Motorcyclists are advised to ride within the prescribed speed limit.”