PREPARE FOR ROADBLOCKS:
Cops warn of drunk driving checks
PREPARE for roadblocks after the rugby and soccer games in the city tonight and don’t think you can take drinks to the beach after-parties.
That’s the warning from eThekwini metro police who expect a 60 000-strong turnout for the Currie Cup rugby showdown at Kings Park and soccer’s mighty clash between AmaZulu and Kaizer Chiefs at the Moses Mabhida Stadium.
Last night, eThekwini metro police spokesperson Superintendent Parboo Sewpersad said: “With both games combined, we are expecting an estimated 60 000 people in the precinct around the stadiums and then there are the after-parties at the beachfront which are also expected to draw postgame crowds.
“All our planning has been done and we have hosted major events before so we know what to expect.
“We have also done our planning for the parties at the beachfront and vehicles will be searched for liquor, which is not allowed. We will also be monitoring all the major roads and intersections in and out of the city,” said Sewpersad. He also urged the public to be responsible and organise a lift home, designate a driver or take a taxi or Uber should people be drinking alcohol.
Today the tempo which has built up throughout the week for the Currie Cup final will reach fever-pitch at 4pm kickoff time and yesterday, The Independent on Saturday tracked down fans at the stadium who were buying last-minute tickets or supporters’ kits.
Andrew Povey, who had just arrived from Johannesburg said: “From a small age I have supported the Sharks and I’m excited to be here.”
Local Vinny Pillay said he hoped the Durban humidity would kick in and “it will be boiling hot which will be to our advantage”.
Also having travelled down from Johannesburg, but born and bred in Durban, Marius Walkenshaw said: “Curwin Bosch is going to be the kingpin in this match. I predict 24-17 to the Sharks.”
Mother of two boys, Nosipho Gama, said: “The Sharks have to win, it’s my son’s birthday and he and his brother are big Sharks fans.”
Jordan Moodley said Western Province must expect a storm “like none before”.
Husain Motala added: “The Sharks are going to win, they have dominated this season. That last match (against Province), they were just letting them gain some confidence.”
Tickets are still available from R90 and it’s time to #FillUpTheSharkTank.
With Orlando Pirates also taking on Golden Arrows at Princess Magogo Stadium in KwaMashu, eThekwini mayor Zandile Gumede said the sporting events this weekend were expected to inject R285 million into the local economy, with hotels at 100% capacity.
“I would like to wish all our local teams the best of luck as they battle it out on the sporting fields,” said Gumede.
The Currie Cup final kicks off at 4pm and the AmaZulu clash with the Chiefs kicks off at 10pm.