Motorists travelling to KwaZulu-Natal for the 130th Durban July this weekend have been urged to exercise extreme caution, with authorities expecting a significant increase in traffic volumes along the busy N3 corridor from Friday through Saturday.

The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), together with traffic authorities from Gauteng, Mpumalanga, the Free State and KwaZulu-Natal, has launched a coordinated road safety operation aimed at preventing crashes and ensuring the smooth flow of traffic to one of South Africa’s biggest social and sporting events.

Thousands of racegoers are expected to make the journey to Durban for the prestigious horse racing spectacle on Saturday, while the winter school holidays are also expected to add to the already heavy traffic on the country’s busiest freight and passenger route.

The RTMC said law enforcement officers, supported by N3 Toll Concession (N3TC), immigration officials from the Department of Home Affairs and other stakeholders, will be deployed along key sections of the route to enforce traffic laws and assist motorists.

RTMC spokesperson Simon Zwane said the increased traffic volumes mean motorists need to remain patient, obey the rules of the road and avoid behaviour that could endanger lives.

“The Durban July weekend is characterised by a festive atmosphere, but that should never come at the expense of road safety. We urge all motorists to obey road traffic regulations, drive responsibly and cooperate with law enforcement officers deployed along the route,” Zwane said.

Authorities warned that the N3 will carry a mix of freight vehicles, passenger cars, SUVs and buses over the weekend, increasing congestion and the likelihood of crashes if drivers fail to exercise caution.

Motorists have also been advised to expect delays at several roadworks currently underway along the route.

One of the major construction zones is between Tugela River and Tugela Plaza, while another affected stretch lies between Harrismith and Warden. Additional congestion is expected on the approach to Durban, particularly between Pietermaritzburg and Durban, where road construction continues.

Drivers have been urged to reduce speed and remain patient when travelling through these sections.

The RTMC also highlighted several other hazards motorists should be aware of.

Pedestrian activity remains a serious concern along parts of the N3, particularly where illegal crossings have contributed to numerous fatal crashes. Authorities appealed to drivers to remain vigilant, especially during the early morning and evening hours when visibility is reduced.

Commercial vehicle operators have also been warned about strong crosswinds between Hilton and Pietermaritzburg, while dense winter fog is expected to reduce visibility in some areas.

Law enforcement agencies have warned they will take a zero-tolerance approach to dangerous and unlawful behaviour on the roads throughout the weekend.

Officers will be targeting motorists who drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, exceed speed limits, perform illegal U-turns, or operate vehicles without valid driver’s licences.

Authorities also revealed they are aware of motorists deliberately removing or concealing vehicle number plates in an attempt to evade speed cameras and traffic enforcement systems.

Zwane warned that officers would act decisively against anyone attempting to circumvent the law.

“We are aware of attempts by some motorists to remove or obscure registration plates to avoid identification by speed enforcement cameras. Such conduct is illegal, and law enforcement officers will not hesitate to take action against offenders,” he said.

He added that every official deployed over the weekend has a responsibility to enforce the law professionally, impartially and with integrity while ensuring that road users reach their destinations safely.

The RTMC appealed to motorists to plan their trips carefully, ensure their vehicles are roadworthy before departure, avoid fatigue by taking regular rest breaks and allow sufficient travel time to accommodate expected congestion.

With thousands of people expected to descend on Durban over the coming days, authorities say responsible driving will be critical in ensuring the weekend is remembered for celebrations rather than tragedy.