The N1 in Beaufort West in the Central Karoo has been closed in both directions due to protests in the area.

Beaufort West community members are protesting over the withdrawal of learner transport and have blocked the road with their vehicles, causing traffic congestion.

Hundreds of frustrated motorists are now stuck on the N1 in Beaufort West in the Central Karoo with concerns about a heatwave in the area.

Traffic has been held up for several kilometres on the national road.

According to SABC News Western Cape, provincial traffic chief Kenny Africa said:

“Currently, the N1 outside Beaufort West has been closed for traffic on the Cape Town side and also the Oudtshoorn junction has also been closed due to protests by community members who have problems with learner transport that have been cancelled. The road will be closed until further notice.”

Linda Mani, who is travelling to a funeral in the Eastern Cape, says she‘s been stuck in traffic since 6am this morning. Speaking to SABC News Western Cape Mani said:

“There’s more than 300 to 500 trucks and small cars. Its chaos. I just stepped out of my car and it is like 35 degrees. I came here at 6 but the trucks that have been here since 4 in the morning. When we went there to ask those people, they saying the scholar transport the department of education either cancelled it, or I’m not sure.”

More: SABC News Western Cape