Traffic volumes expected to surge over Easter on N4

TRAC said it expects the N4 route traffic volumes to increase substantially between Gauteng, Mpumalanga and Maputo this Easter Weekend.

In preparation, it will boost its efforts to accommodate the influx of traffic between the two countries.

Statistics indicate that the Easter Weekend is the busiest weekend of the year on the route, and traffic volumes are expected to peak as follows:
Thursday April 6: 11:00-20:00
Friday April 7: 08:00-17:00
Monday April 10: 09:00-17:00

TRAC’s N4 Easter Road Safety Awareness and Swift Response Campaign will commence on Thursday morning, April 6, and conclude on Tuesday, April 11.

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The first element of the campaign comprises a road safety activation on April 7 at Alzu Petroport where TRAC teams will interact with road users, focusing on safety education to generate awareness.

Road users will also have the opportunity to enjoy some freebies (including freshly brewed Mugg & Bean filter coffee) while learning more about what the TRAC N4 route offers, including the TRAC 24-hour Helpdesk and TRACAssist.

The helpdesk is available 365 days a year and is the communication point between road users and TRAC’s roadside assistance units. In view of this, road users are urged to save the toll-free helpdesk numbers – 0800 87 22 64 (RSA)/800 9022 (Moz) – on their cellphones in case of an emergency or incident en route or should they need to make an enquiry.

The second element of the initiative will see TRACAssist units, which work closely with emergency service stakeholders, stationed at TRAC’s mainline plazas and other strategic points along the route.

This leg of the campaign is geared to reduce response times to roadside emergencies and incidents. TRAC’s patrol units will also be on full alert throughout this period, conducting multiple daily patrols to remain proactive in keeping the road safe and clear for all users.

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Although TRAC is not responsible for border post operations, it will again work with the management of both the Lebombo and Ressano Garcia border posts to assist with traffic management en route to these international crossing facilities. Assistance will include the provision of signage and other traffic accommodation requirements.

TRAC urged road users to plan their trips to avoid delays at these international crossings, which are extremely busy during the Easter period.

All roadworks will be suspended over the long weekend. However, construction sites will still be deemed active. Traffic calming measures will be in place at Montrose and lane restrictions will be in effect between Malalane and the TSB turn-off to accommodate roadworks in these areas. Road users are urged to be cautious and observe related signage when travelling through there.

With national road accident statistics showing that most automobile accidents are due to negligent driving and poor road user behaviour, TRAC appealed to all those travelling along the route to be responsible and law abiding.