The Department of Transport in the Eastern Cape has condemned the closure of the N2 road between Dutywa and Butterworth in the Eastern Cape allegedly by angry protestors.
Traffic has been brought to a complete standstill on this road.
The protestors are believed to have used an articulated truck to completely block both lanes of this important route, leaving workers and learners stranded while cargo is also stuck on the road.
Provincial Transport Department Spokesperson Unathi Binqose says the reason for the protest is unknown at this stage but law enforcement officers are on the scene to try and clear the road.
Binqose has urged motorists to use alternative routes.
“Law enforcement officers are on the ground trying to get the road to reopen and traffic to flow again. Transport MEC Xolile Nqatha has condemned the actions of the protestors, saying however legitimate their grievances may be, their actions have shown complete disregard for the masses of our people who find themselves stranded on the road and that such action will not be tolerated.”
Simultaneously, in the City of Cape Town, the R300 highway has been closed due to service delivery protests near the N2.
Traffic authorities have issued warnings to motorists to use alternative routes.
Police and other law enforcement agencies are present at the scene, monitoring the situation.
