As Injiva(Zimbabweans based in South Africa) go back to their various bases in South Africa, the continent’s busiest border post is once again overwhelmed by travellers, Newsday reports.

The congestion has reportedly been exacerbated by the reduced operating hours due to COVID-19 curfews imposed by both countries in a bid to contain the coronavirus.

Speaking to the publication, a senior immigration officer spoke to the publication and said they have to adhere to COVID-19 containment measures:

We have to adhere to the strict curfew times imposed against COVID-19. After 10pm only essential traffic is allowed through and in this case haulage trucks for which the border has remained open throughout.

You will note that we have only been open to private motorists and still been under pressure. We have to give room to health officials to go through the protocols demanded by the new normal.

Travellers that spoke to the publication said they were tired of sleeping in their vehicles and waiting in long queues when the border eventually opens at 6 AM each morning.

A Beitbridge resident that spoke to the publication said the problem persists every holiday and the government should have come up with a solution by now.