WATCH Soweto protest: Motorists urged to use alternate routes

Motorists have been advised to use alternative routes following protest action in Soweto, south of Johannesburg.

Residents have blocked Chris Hani road near Klipspruit Valley roads close to Maponya Mall with rocks and burning tyres. – The roads have since been closed.

The protest action on Tuesday is causing traffic congestions and backlogs and motorists have been advised to avoid the area.

Watch the protest in Soweto:

Civil unrest and area denial in Soweto this morning – that's 6 so far for this morning. pic.twitter.com/QlGhUq1O2B

— k9_reaper | T.I.A (@k9_reaper) May 21, 2024

The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) spokesperson Xolani Fihla said officers are monitoring the protest.

“It is alleged that residents of a nearby hostel are protesting over employment opportunities which they were supposedly promised, but with no avail.

“The situation is calm besides the road closure and officers have been deployed and are currently engaging with the protestors. Motorists are advised to avoid and use alternate routes such Elias Motsoaledi and Moroka Nancefield Road, Chris Hani road and Mokoena Street and Modjaji Street travelling through Pimville,” Fihla said.

Lenasia South protest

Last week, prolonged electricity outages in Lenasia South forced residents to take to the streets in protest.

Angry and frustrated resident of the suburb barricaded intersections along the arterial K43 road with massive boulders and burning tyres.

Lenasia South has been grappling with no electricity for almost four days with residents saying their complaints to officials from the City of Johannesburg, mayor Kabelo Gwamanda, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi and even President Cyril Ramaphosa have fallen on deaf ears.

ALSO READ: WATCH: Lenasia South residents protest over prolonged electricity outages