The Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) advises motorists of a temporary full closure on the M1 Motorway between the Smit Street and Carr Street interchanges for essential structural surveys. The closure will take place on Sunday, 19 October 2025, between 13h00 and 16h00.

These surveys form part of the JRA’s ongoing structural assessments of the M1 section affected by tunnel fires in March 2024 and March 2025. To ensure accurate readings, the surveys require the use of highly sensitive equipment that must operate in a vibration-free environment. As a result, access to the M1 via Smit Street and Carr Street interchanges will be prohibited during the three-hour closure.

Detour Routes

1. M1 Southbound (towards Johannesburg CBD/Soweto):
• Exit the M1 at the Smit Street off-ramp.
• Follow Smit Street to De Beer Street.
• Turn left onto De Beer Street.
• Turn left onto De Korte Street.
• Turn left onto Bertha Street and continue over the Nelson Mandela Bridge.
• Proceed to Carr Street in Newtown and re-join the M1 southbound via the Carr Street on-ramp.

2. M1 Northbound (towards Sandton/Pretoria):
• Exit the M1 at the Carr Street off-ramp.
• Head east on Carr Street.
• Turn left onto the Nelson Mandela Bridge, which becomes Bertha Street.
• Turn left onto De Korte Street.
• Turn left onto Henri Street.
• Turn right onto Smit Street and re-join the M1 northbound via the Smit Street on-ramp.

“Motorists are urged to plan their journeys in advance, allow extra travel time, and use the designated detour routes. The JRA apologises for any inconvenience and appreciates the public’s patience and cooperation during this essential work,” said JRA spokesperson Bertha Scheepers.

Meanwhile, the JRA is pleased to announce the re-opening of Drysdale Road in Randburg. The road is now fully operational between Brushwood Estate in the north and Gayle Road in the south, following extensive rehabilitation.

A full road closure was implemented on 4 September 2025 as a necessary safety precaution while the JRA undertook urgent repair work on a section of the road that had collapsed due to severe flooding.

These repairs and upgrades have significantly improved drainage and water flow management, which will mitigate the risk of future erosion. The JRA extends its sincere appreciation to all residents and road users for their patience and cooperation throughout the duration of the roadworks.

Written by Kelebogile Mafa