Two people have died in a head-on collision near Polokwane, as traffic volumes surge ahead of the busy Easter weekend.
Authorities confirmed that the crash, involving two vehicles, forced the closure of both lanes on the N1. One person was also injured, while Emergency Medical Services remain on the scene.
This comes just a day after a separate, more deadly crash on the same route claimed five lives on Wednesday.
According to officials, the earlier accident happened near Modimolle/Waterberg when a vehicle allegedly made an illegal U-turn on the highway, leading to a head-on collision involving multiple vehicles. Five people, including drivers and passengers, died at the scene, while others were seriously injured.
Authorities suspect reckless and possibly drunk driving may have contributed to that crash, and a driver linked to the incident was arrested.
With traffic volumes rising sharply, about 1 500 vehicles per hour reported at key toll routes officials are urging motorists to exercise extreme caution.
Road users are reminded this Easter weekend to:
- Avoid speeding and dangerous overtaking
- Never make illegal U-turns
- Do not drive under the influence
- Stay alert and patient in heavy traffic
Authorities say these tragedies highlight the urgent need for responsible driving to prevent further loss of life on South Africa’s roads.