Sandton motorists are bracing for temporary road closures and traffic disruptions this weekend as authorities gear up for the high-profile G20 Leaders’ Summit in Sandton.

• Gauteng authorities are conducting joint operations to ensure safe and smooth traffic ahead of the G20 Leaders’ Summit.
• Major highways and key urban roads in Johannesburg, including Sandton, will experience temporary closures and disruptions.
• Motorists are urged to plan their journeys, allow extra travel time, and use alternative routes where possible.
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Motorists are being urged to brace themselves for temporary road closures and intermittent traffic disruptions this weekend, as law enforcement agencies ramp up joint operations in preparation for the upcoming G20 Leaders’ Summit in Sandton. Scheduled for 22 to 23 November 2025, the summit will bring together the world’s most influential political and economic leaders, placing South Africa – and particularly Sandton – at the centre of global attention.

The summit promises more than high-level negotiations and policy dialogues. Sandton, widely known as the “richest square mile in Africa” will serve as a vibrant showcase of South Africa’s capacity for leadership, innovation, and hospitality. With its cluster of luxury hotels, premier office spaces, high-end retail destinations, and exclusive dining venues, the district epitomises the sophistication and dynamism that makes it a fitting host for such a high-profile international gathering.

As part of the security and traffic management preparations, the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), in collaboration with Gauteng Traffic Police (GTP), Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD), and the South African Police Service (SAPS), will conduct a coordinated traffic operation on Saturday, 15 November 2025, from 9am to 1pm. The exercise aims to test traffic flow, secure high-security corridors, and enforce compliance with traffic regulations ahead of the summit, which will see an increased presence of motorcades and official delegations across the province.

Affected Areas And Routes

Authorities have warned that the operation will target both major highways and key urban arteries within the City of Johannesburg. Roads expected to be impacted include:

Major National and Regional Routes:
• N1
• M1
• N12

Key Arterial and Urban Roads:
• 5th Street, Maude Street, Daisy Street
• Rivonia Road
• Grayston Drive, Katherine Street
• Whiteley Road
• Melrose Boulevard
• Athol Oaklands Road
• Oxford Road
• Glenhove Road
• Jan Smuts Avenue, Winnie Mandela Drive, Hendrick Potgieter Road
• Rand Show Road
• Nasrec Road
• Golden Highway (Nasrec)

The RTMC and local traffic authorities have emphasised that clear signage, visible traffic officers, and real-time updates will guide motorists through affected areas.

These measures are essential to enhance public safety, enforce traffic compliance, and support ongoing traffic law enforcement initiatives, including vehicle inspections and congestion management.

// Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) Spokesperson

Access for emergency and essential services will remain a priority throughout the operation.

Alternative Routes For Motorists

To ease travel during the operation, commuters are advised to plan their journeys in advance, allow extra travel time, and use alternative routes where possible. The authorities are urging motorists to stay alert, follow official directions, and exercise patience during these temporary disruptions, stressing that the operation is a necessary precaution to ensure a smooth and secure summit.

Sandton: A Global Stage For South Africa

Beyond traffic and security concerns, the upcoming G20 Summit is an unprecedented opportunity for South Africa to demonstrate its capacity for leadership, economic vision, and hospitality on the global stage. Sandton’s skyline of gleaming office towers, luxury hotels, and premier retail centres will host leaders who will engage in critical discussions on economic stability, sustainable development, and equitable global growth.

Logistics, Security, And Preparedness

Security is at the heart of the operational preparations. The coordinated traffic and law enforcement exercise this weekend is part of a broader security strategy that includes:
• Testing the movement and coordination of motorcades and official delegations
• Identifying potential bottlenecks and areas prone to congestion
• Ensuring rapid response capabilities in case of emergencies
• Verifying communication systems between agencies and emergency services

According to officials, these measures are critical for both safety and efficiency, particularly given the high-profile nature of the summit and the volume of international media attention it will attract. In addition, the RTMC and JMPD will deploy personnel along key routes to manage traffic flow and assist motorists during the exercise.

Beyond The Summit: Economic And Cultural Impact

While traffic and security may pose short-term inconveniences, the long-term benefits of hosting the G20 Summit are significant. The event will spotlight South Africa as a destination for diplomatic, economic, and cultural exchange, providing opportunities for international investment, tourism, and trade partnerships. Sandton’s world-class and recently spruced up infrastructure – including high-end hotels, premium conference venues, and luxury dining experiences – will leave a lasting impression on global delegates and media.

In addition, local businesses are expected to benefit from the influx of visitors, while South African culture, hospitality, and innovation will be showcased on a global platform. From high-level negotiations to cultural tours, the summit promises a holistic experience that combines business, diplomacy, and local pride.

Looking Ahead: A Landmark Event

With roads set to close and traffic temporarily rerouted this weekend, motorists are advised to remain patient and plan ahead. The joint operations by RTMC, GTP, JMPD, and SAPS are vital steps to ensure that South Africa presents a safe, secure, and efficient environment for the G20 Summit.

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