Pretoria: Road users should anticipate increased traffic on the N1 and N3 this weekend as people travel for religious pilgrimages and a cultural festival in Limpopo and the Free State.

According to South African Government News Agency, traffic on the N1 north will rise as pilgrims head to Moria for the Zion Christian Church pilgrimage. Roads in and around Polokwane are expected to be busy, posing a risk to pedestrian safety.

The N1 south towards Bloemfontein will also experience higher traffic volumes due to the Mangaung Cultural Festival. Meanwhile, the N3 will see increased traffic as members of the Nazareth Baptist Church (Shembe) gather in Harrismith.

Motorists are advised to be patient and cautious, especially on routes with ongoing maintenance. Extensive rehabilitation and widening works are underway on the N3 Toll Route between the Wilge Toll Plaza near Villiers and the Heidelberg South Interchange. Improvements are also occurring on the N1 south between Ventersburg and Kroonstad.

Drivers should prepare for potential lane closures and reduced speed limits in construction zones. Law enforcement will be vigilant, conducting drunk driving operations to ensure road safety.