Speaking at the border post on Saturday, Masiapato confirmed that traffic flows were already rising, with the busiest period expected within the next 24 hours as holidaymakers return to work and schools prepare to reopen.
“We did expect that people would start coming mainly today, and we are also expecting the highest numbers by tomorrow,” he said.
“Some people will be returning to workplaces from Monday, and on that basis we are seeing the movement picking up.”
According to the BMA, about 11 000 travellers were processed on January 1, with numbers rising to around 12 000 the following day. Officials anticipate that crossings could reach approximately 18 000 travellers as return traffic peaks.
Masiapato outlined how operations at Beitbridge have been structured to manage the surge. Passenger buses and taxis are being processed in designated areas near the main terminal, while small private vehicles are routed through the Manika bypass. Freight trucks continue to be handled separately to avoid congestion and delays.
“Everything is going well. We are very much ready to handle the numbers as they come,” he said, adding that staffing levels, processing points and traffic flow plans had been adjusted to accommodate the expected influx.
Reflecting on challenges experienced at other border posts during the festive period, Masiapato referred to the activation of manual processing at the Lebombo Port of Entry on Christmas Day. He explained that the decision was taken to prevent agitation and possible safety risks as queues built up.
“That was an exceptional situation on Christmas Day, when people were becoming restless, and there was a risk of serious disorder,” he said. “Here at Beitbridge, we do not foresee that kind of challenge.”
The Border Management Authority maintains that current infrastructure and operational measures at Beitbridge are sufficient to ensure orderly processing, minimise waiting times and maintain safety as thousands of travellers make their way back into SA over the coming days.
–ChannelAfrica–
