Major Cape Town routes affected as SONA road closures roll out

Cape Town residents are advised to prepare for significant travel disruptions as the State of the Nation Address (SONA) returns to the Cape Town City Hall.

President Cyril Ramaphosa is scheduled to deliver his address in the evening on Thursday, the 12th of February.

The City of Cape Town’s Traffic Services confirmed that a comprehensive security perimeter and ceremonial preparations will necessitate road closures extending through the end of the month, with some road closures already in effect.

Key areas affected

While the spotlight will be on the City Hall and the Grand Parade, the ripple effect will be felt from the Southern Suburbs all the way into the heart of the CBD.

Primary CBD Closures: Major arteries including Darling, Roeland, and Plein Streets will face total closures or restricted access on Thursday. Some restrictions in the immediate vicinity of City Hall will remain in place until 28 February.

Arterial Routes: Commuters using the M3 (Union Avenue, Rhodes Drive) and Philip Kgosana Drive should expect intermittent closures and heavy delays, particularly as the presidential motorcade moves toward the city.

Southern Suburbs: Suburban roads such as Klipper Road, Newlands Avenue, and Princess Anne Avenue will also see temporary closures to facilitate the safe passage of dignitaries.

ALSO READ: Parliament aims to keep SONA costs in line with budget

Sona to be held at City Hall again as Dome repairs fall behind schedule

The city said while signage will be installed in the affected areas, motorists are requested to familiarise themselves with the list of road closures and plan their routes accordingly.

The city has urged road users to Limit non-essential travel in the CBD area over the period in question. Factor in additional travelling time if they must move in, out or around the CBD and surroundings, as traffic volumes will likely be elevated. Plan routes accordingly and keep intersections free between light changes as blocking interchanges causes further delays

A list of road closures can be accessed here.