Breezy’s fans urged not to use their cars to concert

December 13, 2024 284

There’s already a hive of activity around the Nasrec precinct in Johannesburg, just hours before Chris Brown’s much-anticipated concert.

Scores of Breezy fans will be heading to the FNB Stadium on Saturday and Sunday.

Several roads leading to Soweto will be closed from 11 am on Saturday and will re-open on Sunday night after the concert.

JMPD spokesperson, Xolani Fihla, says motorists should anticipate increased traffic volumes as the EFF is also holding its National People’s Assembly at the Nasrec Expo Centre.

He has advised people to use alternative transport to get to the venues.

The affected roads include:

Golden Highway: Closed between the Corner of Golden Highway and Ring 1, with access limited to authorised vehicles only.
Nasrec Road: Closed between Recreation Road and Shaft 17 Road. Access to pre-paid parking is available at Recreation Road.
Soweto Highway: Closed between Mentz Road and the N1 Offramp, with no access to parking.
Booysens Reserve Road: Closed between Crownwood Road and League Avenue, with no access to parking.

The Gautrain will be offering its services to concertgoers.

A bus shuttle service between Park Station and FNB Stadium has also been made available.

Bus shuttle service between Park Station and FNB Stadium
First bus from Park Station to FNB Stadium departs at 11:00
Last bus from FNB Stadium to Park Station departs at 23:30
Last train from Park Station departs at 00:00

The Gauteng Traffic Police have also urged travellers to be vigilant ahead of the long weekend and festive season.

Several industries, companies closed for the year today and academic programmes came to an end.

Increased traffic volumes are usually recorded during this time of the year.

Below are some of the major roads where heavy traffic is expected.

• N1: Pretoria to Polokwane

• N4: Pretoria to Mpumalanga

• N4: Pretoria to Rustenburg

• R573: Pretoria to Mpumalanga

• N12: Johannesburg to Mpumalanga

• N3: Johannesburg to Durban

• N1: Johannesburg to Bloemfontein

Authorities have also cautioned pedestrians, who often contribute significantly to the number of road fatalities, to avoid crossing freeways.

About 5 360 pedestrians lost their lives on the country’s roads last year, with Gauteng accounting for most of the fatalities.

The Automobile Association has meanwhile highlighted the importance of managing both physical and mental fatigue.

“Fatigue is one of the leading contributors to road accidents, with research showing that drowsy and distracted drivers are significantly more likely to be involved in collisions.”

“Drivers who are physically tired or mentally exhausted may overlook warning signs, misjudge traffic conditions, or fail to respond quickly to sudden changes in events.”

AA’s spokesperson, Eleanor Mavimbela, says vehicle fitness is equally important.

“A well-maintained vehicle reduces the risk of mechanical failures and ensures safe operation.”

The association has also provided tips for safe driving.

Ensure Vehicle Fitness: Regularly check your vehicle’s mechanical fitness as well as tyre pressure, brakes, lights, and other essential systems.

Take Regular Breaks: If you feel tired or stressed, stop and rest. Don’t push through fatigue. Resting every two hours on long trips can make a significant difference.

Get Enough Sleep: Prioritize rest, especially before long-distance driving. The average adult should aim for eight hours of sleep.

Avoid Distractions: Keep your focus on the road. Distractions, such as texting, talking on the phone, or using in-car entertainment systems while driving, worsen mental fatigue.