By Marcus Moloko
The Beitbridge Border Post has once again become a hive of activity as thousands of travellers stream back into South Africa after the festive season.
Most are returning to their places of work following holidays in Zimbabwe, while others are arriving from Malawi and beyond.
The Border Management Authority (BMA) has cautioned that lawlessness will not be tolerated during this busy period, urging all travellers to ensure they carry the necessary documents to avoid delays.
Border Management Authority Commissioner Dr. Nakampe Michael Masiapato confirmed on Sunday that the authority is bracing for multiple waves of returning travellers, with the first major peak already underway.
“We are expecting that we might actually get beyond 25,000 today,” Masiapato said.
“In terms of our projections, today marks the first peak in the return leg. The second peak is expected next weekend, followed by a third peak the weekend after. We are ready to deal with the numbers as they come through the port.”
The commissioner described the situation as “hectic,” noting that more than 50 buses arrived this weekend alone, some carrying passengers from Malawi.
Among them were South Africans who had travelled north to attend church services and New Year celebrations before making their way back home.
Beitbridge processed over 22,400 travellers, while OR Tambo International Airport recorded just under 29,000, and Lebombo Border Post handled around 21,000.
Masiapato emphasised that the BMA is prepared for the influx, with systems in place to manage the flow of people efficiently.
With three peaks projected, the BMA’s vigilance will be critical in ensuring smooth passage for tens of thousands as the country experiences one of its busiest migration periods of the year.
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