Motorists warned to expect congestion as thousands head to FNB Stadium for National Prayer Day on Sunday
Gauteng’s road network is preparing for a significant influx of traffic this weekend as thousands of congregants journey to FNB Stadium for National Prayer Day on Sunday, 30 November 2025. The Gauteng Traffic Police (GTP) has issued a comprehensive traffic advisory warning motorists to expect substantial congestion across multiple major routes from Saturday through Sunday evening.
This annual religious gathering represents one of Gauteng’s largest coordinated movements of people, with faith-based organizations from across the province and neighboring regions converging on Johannesburg. Understanding the scale and timing of this event is crucial for both attendees and regular motorists who need to navigate the region during this period.
Routes to be affected
Primary Congestion Corridors: What to Expect
The Gauteng Traffic Police have identified several key highways that will serve as primary arteries for the incoming traffic. The N1 from Polokwane to Johannesburg will experience particularly heavy volumes as congregants from Limpopo and northern regions make their way to the event.
Other critical routes expecting significant congestion include:
- N3 from Durban to Johannesburg: This major freight corridor will see increased passenger vehicle traffic from KwaZulu-Natal and the Free State
- N4 from Emalahleni to Johannesburg: Expect heavy traffic from Mpumalanga and eastern regions
- N1 from Bloemfontein to Johannesburg: Free State travelers will contribute to southbound congestion
- N12 from Potchefstroom to Johannesburg: Western approach routes will experience elevated traffic volumes
Additionally, all access roads in the immediate vicinity of FNB Stadium—including the M47, N17, and local routes through Soweto—will experience extreme congestion, particularly during peak arrival and departure times.
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Safety guidelines for motorists
Comprehensive Safety Guidelines for Challenging Conditions
The traffic police have issued detailed safety recommendations accounting for both the expected high traffic volumes and recent adverse weather conditions that have affected road surfaces throughout the province.
Speed and Visibility Management: “Drive within the prescribed speed limits as some roads may be wet due to heavy rainfall,” the GTP cautioned. Reduced speeds are particularly important on curves and downhill sections where water accumulation can create hydroplaning risks. During rainy conditions, drivers should activate their headlamps—not just parking lights—to significantly improve vehicle visibility to other motorists.
Following Distance Protocol: “Drivers must always maintain a safe following distance,” the authority emphasised. In wet conditions, the standard 3-second following distance should be extended to at least 5-6 seconds to account for increased stopping distances on slick surfaces.
Pedestrian safety concerns
Pedestrian Safety and Patience Around the Venue
With large crowds expected to navigate on foot around FNB Stadium, special attention has been directed toward pedestrian safety. “Young children and pedestrians must be careful when crossing the roads, especially around FNB stadium,” the GTP warned.
Motorists should anticipate unexpected pedestrian movements and increased pedestrian activity in areas that don’t normally experience heavy foot traffic. Reduced speeds and heightened awareness are crucial in the stadium periphery where parking areas may require pedestrians to cross busy access routes.
The traffic police have specifically called for increased patience from drivers: “Exercise patience and avoid unnecessary overtaking, especially around FNB stadium.” They also reminded all drivers to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy, with particular attention to tires (adequate tread depth for wet conditions), brakes, wipers, and all lighting systems functioning properly.
Law enforcement deployment
Coordinated Law Enforcement Response
The Gauteng Traffic Police will be implementing a coordinated response with other law enforcement agencies throughout the province. This multi-agency approach will include dedicated traffic management teams at key intersections, increased patrols along identified congestion corridors, and specialized pedestrian control measures around the stadium.
“Motorists are strongly encouraged to cooperate with law enforcement officials throughout the weekend and beyond to ensure road safety and save lives,” the GTP stated. This cooperation includes following directional signage, heeding instructions from traffic officers, and reporting any emergencies or hazardous situations immediately.
For those planning to attend the event, authorities recommend considering public transportation options where available, carpooling to reduce vehicle volumes, and allowing substantial additional travel time to account for the expected congestion.
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