N12 at Diepkloof reopens after protest. The roads to avoid in Soweto
The N12 East at the Diepkloof Interchange reopened after a service delivery protest closed it on 9 November. Debris was still being cleared on Chris Hani Road. The closures and JMPD's alternative routes.
The N12 East at the Diepkloof Interchange in Soweto has reopened after a service delivery protest shut it on Monday morning, 9 November. JMPD said traffic was returning to normal, but officers were still clearing debris from Chris Hani Road near the Diepkloof Hostel, The Citizen reported in its update at about midday.
Police and traffic officers stayed in the area to stop further disruptions. Drivers should still expect delays near the hostel.
Which roads were closed?
| Road | What happened | Status at last update |
|---|---|---|
| N12 East at the Diepkloof Interchange | Closed by protesters | Reopened |
| Chris Hani Road, Collinder Road to the N12 exit | Closed in both directions | Debris being cleared |
| N1/N12 traffic | Diverted onto the N1 North and Golden Highway | Not stated in the latest update |
Sources: The Citizen, Joburg ETC
Protesters blocked the roads with rocks, debris and burning tyres, causing hours of delays across southern Johannesburg, according to The Citizen. Traffic on Chris Hani Road was sent into Diepkloof at Collinder Road while it was shut.
What are the alternative routes?
JMPD told drivers to use these if Diepkloof is blocked again:
- Golden Highway
- Soweto Highway
- Rand Show Road
- Immink Drive
- Ben Naudé Drive
Source: JMPD via The Citizen
What is the protest about?
The exact demands have not been made public. It is understood to be about service delivery, raised by residents believed to be from the Diepkloof Hostel, The Citizen and Joburg ETC reported. It started a day after the IEC announced the final local election results on Sunday.
What should drivers do?
JMPD spokesperson Xolani Fihla said rocks, debris and other obstructions may still be on the road near the Diepkloof Hostel precinct. "Drivers must exercise extreme caution and comply with instructions from traffic officers on scene," he said earlier in the day (The Citizen).
Check Arrive Alive and JMPD's official social media accounts for live updates before you drive through Diepkloof.
FAQ
Is the N12 open at Diepkloof?
Yes. The N12 East at the Diepkloof Interchange reopened on Monday 9 November after a protest closed it, The Citizen reported, though debris was still being cleared on nearby Chris Hani Road.
Why was the N12 closed in Soweto?
A service delivery protest, understood to involve residents of the Diepkloof Hostel, blocked the N12 East and Chris Hani Road with rocks, debris and burning tyres.
What routes can I use to avoid Diepkloof?
JMPD advised the Golden Highway, Soweto Highway, Rand Show Road, Immink Drive and Ben Naudé Drive.