Johannesburg motorists warned of major traffic disruptions due to evening race

Motorists in Johannesburg are warned to brace themselves for traffic disruptions north of the city on Thursday evening.

The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department  (JMPD) has announced road closures to accommodate a 5.6-kilometre race taking place through Rosebank, Illovo, Melrose, Birdhaven, and Birnam.

At least 14,000 athletes are expected to take part in the race, which is set to begin at 18:30.

"M1 south and north on and off-ramps, Corlett Drive, Athol-Oaklands Road, Cross Street, Irene Road, Jacobs Avenue, Atherstone Road, Melrose Boulevard, Kerknick Avenue, Venus Street, Greenacres Drive, Wingfield Avenue, St Andrew Road, Ravenswood Avenue, Bute Avenue, Arran Avenue, Tyrwhitt Avenue, Rudd Road, Jellicoe Avenue, Tottenham Avenue, Edgewood Avenue, Glenhove Road, Cecil Avenue, Jameson Avenue, Fifth Street, Somerville Avenue, Wrenrose Avenue, Reform Avenue and Victoria Avenue. JMPD officers will be on-site to help with traffic control and ensure the safety of participants and spectators. We request that all drivers stay patient and plan their routes accordingly," said JMPD spokesperson Xolani Fihla.