By Alicia Mmashakana
The movement of travellers through the Lebombo post is about 50% less than it was this time last year, according to the Border Management Authority.
The BMA is keeping a close eye on the border post following it been opened. It was shut down again this week due to protests in Mozambique.
BMA acting commissioner Jane Thupana said on Thursday that pedestrians and small vehicles were being processed minimally, with statistics showing that 7471 travellers were processed on Wednesday.
However, the processing of cargo remained temporarily suspended, resulting in long queues building up.
Trucking companies have been urged to divert trucks to depots in Komatipoort, and not to dispatch new vehicles to the port until further notice.
“The BMA is working tirelessly together with key stakeholders in the border management sector to manage the situation,” said Thupana.
Members of the Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs visited the port of entry on Wednesday. They highlighted health concerns and the impact of extended delays in processing goods.
The committee was informed that the health risks associated with long delays stemmed from a lack of abolition facilities and water.
“The Border Management Authority has been agile and provided the necessary leadership in responding adequately to the protest to ensure safety of infrastructure and personnel on the South African side of the border,” said committee chairperson Mosa Chabane.
“Despite this, the long delays in processing goods across the border have created a health, economic and safety hazard that needs greater collaboration to ensure immediate relief.”
The BMA has urged all affected parties to exercise patience as it continued to engage with relevant authorities to find lasting solutions.
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