Paul Nyathi

Extremely long traffic jams remain at the Beitbridge border post between Zimbabwe and South Africa.

One commuter told SABC News on Tuesday that “nothing is moving, everything is standing still”.

Newzroom Africa spoke to passengers who explained that several travellers had to leave in search for food, as they had been stuck at the border post for hours, while others had been queueing for days.

“Everyone here is very hungry. I’ve volunteered to walk to the Shell to buy water as people have no water and it’s very hot here”

Long queues were forming as cars and truck were backed up as far as 12 kilometres between Beitbridge and Musina. Several passengers told reporters that they had been queueing for more than three days.

COVID-19 DELAYS
While the post is usually busy over the festive season, additional delays were caused by earlier curfew times. Furthermore, travellers must be cleared under strict COVID-19 protocols.

Transport spokesperson, Matome Moremi-Tauetsoala explained that the situation will be addressed as the department is aware of congestion at the Beitbridge border post.

“Our team from SAPS and traffic have re-strategised their plans and they will put them into action not so long. The matter will be addressed and also the Minister of Home Affairs will be making an announcement that will also enhance the plans that we have now. We are calling on motorists to be patient with each other in the meantime.”