Durban CBD roads to be closed as June 30 march moves from King Dinuzulu Park to SAPS Point

Motorists have been urged to avoid Durban’s central business district on Tuesday amid planned road closures and traffic disruption linked to a June 30 march opposing illegal immigration.

What is happening and when

The march, organised by the March and March Movement together with civic groups and community formations, is scheduled to begin at 10am from King Dinuzulu Park. It will proceed along Dr Pixley KaSeme Street and Gillespie Street and will end at the SAPS Point Police Station.

Traffic management and advice to motorists

Durban Metro Police said traffic officers and other law enforcement personnel will be deployed along the route to manage congestion, maintain public order and assist motorists affected by temporary closures. Motorists were advised to plan ahead, use alternative routes where possible and expect delays while the procession is under way.

Route talks and the change of endpoint

Agreement was reached on the march’s starting point at King Dinuzulu Park, but organisers and municipal officials disagreed over a proposed endpoint at the Old Drive-In site. Durban Metro Police spokesperson Colonel Boysie Zungu said:

“We agreed on the starting point of the march, which will be King Dinuzulu Park. Where we disagree is on the end point.”

The municipality raised concerns that allowing protesters to converge at the Old Drive-In site could pose safety risks because of the large number of people gathered there. Following discussions, the march was approved to end at SAPS Point Police Station.

Security posture across the province

KwaZulu-Natal police have identified eThekwini and uMgungundlovu as key hotspots ahead of the nationwide demonstrations, and said there will be additional monitoring along the N3 corridor near Mooi River because of its importance to freight and commuter movement. Acting KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Major General Phumelele Makoba said:

“eThekwini district is one of our hotspots. uMgungundlovu is one of our hotspots.”

Officials’ warning

Authorities emphasised that peaceful protest is protected by the Constitution, but warned that any violence, intimidation or damage to property will not be tolerated. Businesses and commuters were urged to monitor official traffic updates and to comply with instructions from law enforcement officers throughout the day.