
Torrential rains have forced South Africa to temporarily shut down a vital border crossing with Botswana.
The Grobler’s Bridge crossing, located in northern South Africa, serves as a critical trade route for miners. It facilitates the transport of cargo from Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo’s Copperbelt region to the port of Durban.
Citing safety concerns, South Africa’s Border Management Authority (BMA) announced the closure after consultations with Botswana’s authorities. The Port Management Committee determined that suspending operations was essential due to the flooding caused by relentless rainfall.
“Safety remains our top priority, and this decision was not taken lightly,” the BMA emphasized in an official statement.
Travelers and truck operators were advised to seek alternative routes to avoid disruptions in their journeys and supply chains.
The Limpopo province, where the border crossing is located, has experienced significant rainfall over the past weekend, exacerbating the region’s challenges.
Authorities remain on high alert as efforts continue to monitor weather conditions and restore normal operations.