The Beitbridge Port of Entry in South Africa (SA) has recorded elevated traveller volumes, largely driven by the simultaneous arrival of buses from Malawi, Zimbabwe and Zambia.
The Border Management Authority (BMA) says more than 22 000 travellers were processed on January 3 alone, making Beitbridge the busiest land port of entry in the country.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner for Communication and Marketing at the BMA, Mmemme Mogotsi, says the influx has placed pressure on border operations.
“Beitbridge continues to lead with high volumes at land borders, with over 22-thousand travellers processed in a single day. These elevated numbers are largely driven by the simultaneous arrival of buses from Malawi, Zimbabwe and Zambia,” Mogotsi said.
She says authorities have responded by prioritising vulnerable travellers amid long queues and extreme heat conditions.
“In response to the long queues and extreme heat, the BMA has prioritised small children, the elderly and other vulnerable travellers,” she added.
Mogotsi further says port health measures remain in place to limit health risks.
“Any traveller presenting signs of illness is assessed by BMA port health officials to prevent the importation of infectious and communicable diseases.”
The BMA has deployed additional operational support at Beitbridge and other ports of entry to ensure the smooth processing of travellers during the peak holiday period.
–ChannelAfrica–
