Heavy traffic expected as ZCC pilgrims leave Moria
Motorists have been warned to expect heavy traffic around Moria and on major Limpopo routes this afternoon as thousands of Zion Christian Church (ZCC) pilgrims begin their journey home following the church’s annual New Year consecration service.
The Limpopo Department of Transport and Community Safety says the main church service is expected to conclude at 15:00, with ZCC buses expected to begin leaving Moria from about 16:00.
The September gathering marks the beginning of the new year on the ZCC calendar. More than 4,000 buses from across South Africa, as well as midi- and minibuses from Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Namibia, are expected to have travelled to Moria for the gathering.
Heavy congestion is expected on the R71 in both directions and along the D4040 between Boyne and Maja. Traffic could also spill over onto the R37 towards Burgersfort and the R579 towards Lebowakgomo.
Around Polokwane, increased traffic is expected on the N1 Bypass, R101 southbound, R81, N1 northbound, D19 Matlala Road, and R567 Gilead Road towards the N11.
Motorists travelling towards Gauteng have also been warned to expect delays at toll plazas, where long queues of buses are anticipated.
Traffic officers have been deployed at Moria and along major routes across the province to manage traffic and monitor road safety.
Parking and informal trading have also been prohibited along the R71 in front of Moria City, from Matshelapata in Mentz to Mphogodiba, as authorities seek to protect pedestrians and other road users.
Motorists are urged to plan their journeys carefully, allow extra travel time, obey speed limits and traffic officers, and avoid using gravel shoulders when congestion builds up.
Bus drivers have also been urged to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy, take the required rest breaks, and avoid driving while fatigued.