The much-anticipated Soweto Derby between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates is just around the corner, with thousands of passionate fans expected to flood the FNB Stadium in Johannesburg for this iconic football showdown. As excitement builds for one of South Africa’s biggest sporting events, the Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) has announced several important road closures and traffic management measures aimed at ensuring a smooth experience for both fans and residents in the surrounding areas.
In anticipation of the heavy traffic and large crowds, the JMPD is urging all motorists to plan their routes ahead of time and take note of the major disruptions around the stadium precinct. Here’s what you need to know about the road closures, affected routes, and tips for getting to the match.
Key Roads Affected by Road Closures
According to JMPD spokesperson Xolani Fihla, approximately 24 streets and freeways around FNB Stadium will be affected by road closures and diversions in the lead-up to and after the match. Some of the most important roads that will experience closures include:
Nasrec Road
N1 South and North
Golden Highway
Soweto Highway
Booysens Reserve Road
These are key routes that many fans and residents typically use when traveling in and around the FNB Stadium. Due to the expected traffic buildup, these roads will be closed or diverted starting early in the morning and continuing until after the match.
Traffic Management Plans: Contraflow System
To help ease congestion and manage the large number of vehicles heading to and from the stadium, the contraflow traffic system will be put into effect. This system allows for better flow of traffic by temporarily altering the direction of some lanes.
Here are the key features of the contraflow traffic system:
Northern Side of the Stadium: The contraflow will be implemented from the N17 traffic circle to Shaft 17 Road.
Southern Side of the Stadium: The contraflow will extend from Adcock Ingram Avenue to Recreation Road.
The aim is to provide three lanes heading towards the stadium before the match and four lanes leaving the stadium after the game. This strategy will help reduce the congestion around the stadium and ensure that traffic moves more efficiently.
Timed Road Closures for Matchday Rush
In addition to the contraflow system, there will be a number of other road closures that will come into effect at various times, starting in the morning and peaking during the matchday rush:
Morning Closures:
Soweto Highway will be closed between the N1 bridge and Mentz Street in Booysens from 11:00 AM. This is one of the busiest routes leading to the stadium, so it’s crucial to plan alternative routes.
Afternoon and Evening Closures:
N17 Eastbound (from N1 to Nasrec Road traffic circle) will be closed starting from 5:00 PM.
Rand Show Road Eastbound (at N1 and Aerodrome Road) will also be closed from 5:00 PM.
These timed closures are expected to help manage the surge of vehicles as fans travel to and from the stadium. By closing off certain sections of major roads, the JMPD aims to create a smoother flow of traffic, especially after the match when thousands of fans will be leaving the venue.
Public Transport: Rea Vaya and Park and Ride
In an effort to minimize the impact of the road closures and make it easier for fans to reach the stadium, public transport options like Rea Vaya bus services and Park and Ride facilities will continue to operate as usual. These services will provide an alternative to driving and will help reduce the number of cars on the roads, easing congestion around the FNB Stadium.
For fans looking for a hassle-free way to get to the match, taking advantage of these services is highly recommended. The Park and Ride facilities will allow you to park your vehicle in a designated area and then catch a bus directly to the stadium.
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Tips for Fans Attending the Soweto Derby
Given the significant traffic disruptions around the stadium, here are a few tips for fans attending the Soweto Derby:
Use Public Transport: With many roads being closed or congested, public transport is your best option. Consider using Rea Vaya buses or Park and Ride services to avoid the hassle of driving and parking.
Plan Your Route in Advance: Check the latest updates on road closures and traffic before you leave. Make sure to plan alternative routes if you are driving, as key routes around the stadium will be affected.
Leave Early: Arriving early will help you avoid the last-minute rush. This will also give you plenty of time to find parking and go through security before the match begins.
Be Prepared for Delays: Traffic is expected to be heavy in the lead-up to and after the match. Plan for delays and be patient as you navigate the busy roads around the stadium.
Stay Informed: Listen to local radio stations, such as Jacaranda News, for real-time traffic updates and information about road closures. Staying informed will help you make better decisions on the day of the match.
What Fans Can Expect on Matchday
The Soweto Derby is more than just a football match. It is a massive event that brings together fans from all over South Africa. The atmosphere at FNB Stadium is electric, with thousands of supporters eagerly cheering for their teams. As one of the biggest rivalries in African football, the Soweto Derby promises to deliver high-energy action both on and off the field.
With road closures and traffic disruptions expected in the surrounding areas, authorities are taking every precaution to ensure the safety and smooth operation of the event. From traffic management to law enforcement, everything is being done to ensure that fans have a positive experience while attending the match.
As the countdown to the Soweto Derby intensifies, fans are eagerly anticipating an exciting match between two of South Africa’s most popular football clubs. However, the Johannesburg Metro Police Department’s road closures and traffic management measures are crucial for ensuring safety and smooth traffic flow around FNB Stadium.
Fans are urged to plan ahead, consider public transport options, and stay updated on the latest traffic information to make their matchday experience as enjoyable and hassle-free as possible. By following these guidelines, supporters can avoid delays and make the most of this highly anticipated event.
