Online Reporter
Thupeyo Muleya, Beitbridge Bureau
The Limpopo Department of Transport and Community Safety has encouraged motorists which will be using major roads in the province including the N1 commercial highway which links South Africa to at least seven Southern African Development Community (Sadc) countries through the Beitbridge border post to plan their travels and take note of weather updates to minimise road carnages.
The N1 links by road Zimbabwe, Botswana, Mozambique, Democratic Republic of Congo, Angola, Zambia, Tanzania and Malawi.
At least 1000 trucks, 2000 light cars, 200 buses use the Beitbridge border post daily and the number doubles at peak with most of these using the N1 Highway to access inland South Africa.
This is in addition to local South African traffic from various areas in Limpopo province that use the same road.
Road traffic accidents linked to bad weather or fatigue are common on this road during major public holidays and the rainy season.
In a statement on Friday, the department said traffic is now building up in most roads as the festive season gradually peaks.
“The festive season is upon us and the province will see a significant increase in traffic as the school year ends today. With the Mapungubwe Festival taking place this Saturday, 13 December 2025, in Polokwane, thousands of travellers are expected to converge on the city, while many others will be heading north on the N1 north from Gauteng, passing through toward the Beitbridge border,” said the Department.
“Motorists are urged to plan their journeys carefully, taking into account the adverse weather conditions forecast by the South African Weather Service, which predicts thunderstorms and heavy rain across the province.
“Drivers should check the weather forecast before setting out, reduce speed when visibility is poor and avoid travelling during severe downpours. To ease congestion on the N1, the well‑maintained R101 is recommended as an alternative route”.
The department said it had intensified the “Phuza Weekend” operations to enforce traffic laws during all peak travel periods to address reckless driving, over‑loading and vehicle roadworthiness.
Drunk‑driving checkpoints are being conducted on major routes and in residential areas, and motorists found driving under the influence will face heavy fines and immediate removal from the road.
The department highlighted that road‑safety education will be stepped up at rest stops, filling stations and in at‑risk communities in an effort to reduce pedestrian fatalities.
“All road users are asked to do their part by refraining from alcohol and cell‑phone use while driving, observing speed limits at all times, wearing seatbelts and ensuring that children are secured in appropriate child restraints,” it said.
“Pedestrians should avoid using the roads while under the influence of alcohol, make use of pedestrian bridges and wear bright clothing when walking after dark.
“Vehicles without properly affixed registration plates will be stopped and fined until the plates are correctly displayed. The department thanks its partners, law‑enforcement agencies, transport operators and the public for their cooperation and wishes everyone a safe, joyful festive season”.
