M1 and M2 highway shutdown: Here are the latest updates

Mass action by City of Johannesburg employees has led to the complete closure of the M1 and M2 highways in Braamfontein and the Johannesburg CBD.

m1 m2 highway shutdown

The M1 and M2 highways in Braamfontein and the Johannesburg CBD have been shut down due to mass action by approximately 10,000 City of Johannesburg employees affiliated with the South African Municipal Workers’ Union (SAMWU).

Story Summary:

  • City of Johannesburg employees have blocked the M1 and M2 highways over wage disputes.
  • Traffic is being diverted, with motorists urged to avoid the area.
  • Tensions rose as some motorists clashed during the traffic standstill.

M1 and M2 highway shutdown: Here’s what we know

Mass action by City of Johannesburg employees has led to the complete closure of the M1 and M2 highways in Braamfontein and the Johannesburg CBD.

The employees, protesting wage disputes, blocked both directions of the M1 at Smit Street in Braamfontein and the M2 in Selby, causing severe traffic congestion.

The protest involves about 10,000 SAMWU members who are demonstrating against unresolved wage issues after failed engagements with the City’s leadership earlier in the day.

The closure of these major highways has resulted in extensive traffic delays, affecting thousands of motorists trying to navigate the city.

Roads affected and to avoid

Traffic is being diverted at key points to manage the flow of vehicles away from the protest areas.

Motorists are advised to avoid the following routes:

  • M1 South: Traffic is being diverted at Empire Road.
  • M1 North: Traffic is being diverted at Booysens Road.
  • M2 West: Traffic is being diverted at the Rissik Street/Selby exit.
  • M2 East: Motorists from Crown can join the M1 South and exit at Booysens Road.

Authorities are urging motorists to seek alternative routes to avoid the closed sections of the M1 and M2 highways.

The shutdown has also led to rising tensions among motorists, with reports of clashes during the traffic standstill.

Frustrated drivers, stuck for extended periods, were seen engaging in heated exchanges as the gridlock continued throughout the day.

The situation remains fluid, with authorities on the ground working to manage both the traffic flow and the ongoing protest.