Thousands expected to invade Jozi

Motorists warned of road disruptions

Traffic will be affected tomorrow in some parts of Johannesburg as thousands of walkers invade the streets of the city to take part in the annual MTN Walk The Talk with 702.

This means some major streets around Johannesburg will be closed for the duration of the event and the metro police are advising motorists to use alternative routes.

Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JPMD) spokeswoman Edna Mamonyane said streets in Braamfontein, Parktown, Emmarentia and Greenside will be affected as 50 000 walkers take part in the event.

Barry Hertzog Avenue in Emmarentia between Empire and Beatrice will be closed, while Beyers Naudé Drive and other parts near Emmarentia will also be affected as the area is going to be used as a park and ride, Mamonyane said.

“Regarding Emmarentia, if you are not going to partake in the race, try to avoid it as well as Braamfontein, because the walkers are going to use it,” she said.

“Jan Smuts is going to be affected partially, Jorissen Street and Nelson Mandela, Civic Boulevard will all also be affected,” Mamonyane said.

Joubert Street Extension in Braamfontein and part around the Constitution Hill in Parktown will also be unfriendly to motorists.

The event, which has a longstanding partnership with the City of Joburg and Talk Radio 702, will start at 4am at Marks Park Sports Club in Emmarentia. It is expected to end at 2pm.

MetroBus will transport participants from the parkand-ride facilities to the venue. Joburg Water will provide drinking water to all participants. City Power will provide electrical infrastructure.

Pikitup, on the other hand, will be responsible for cleaning and sweeping affected streets. The city’s emergency management services will be on standby for any eventuality.

JMPD will manage traffic, enforce by-laws and prevent crime.