MEDIA RELEASE
Restoring mobility on the N3 in record time, was a coordinated government effort
KwaZulu-Natal, 23 September 2024 – Following this weekend’s severe snowfall, which caused major traffic disruptions, and had road users stranded for almost two days between Tugela Plaza and Harrismith, SANRAL is pleased that mobility is now fully restored on the N3 Toll Route.
SANRAL CEO, Reginal Demana, said the outcome speaks to carefully coordinated and aligned efforts on the part of government.
“We have weathered the storm, and as we prepare to resume normal operations on the N3 network, we are pleased with the coordinated efforts of all the road authorities and government services that integrated seamlessly to ensure we left no-one behind,” said Demana.
The rapid response and well-orchestrated communications efforts reaffirm confidence in SANRAL and N3TC’s services on the N3.
“I wish to express my sincere appreciation to all involved in the operation – organs of state such as the National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC) under the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), the South African Army, South African Police Service (SAPS), disaster management personnel, humanitarian groups, local farmers, the motorists who were trapped and still cooperated, the media, our Minister and Deputy Minister of Transport Ms Barbara Creecy and Mr Mkhuleko Hlengwa as well as the SANRAL Board, Management and staff,” said Demana.
“This is indeed testament to the South African spirit of coming together and working all out to get us through a crisis.
“While we are indeed relieved, we are also deeply saddened by the loss of life during this disaster. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family and loved ones of the 39-year-old woman who succumbed to hypothermia on Saturday morning, after being stuck on the road overnight.”
Inclement weather conditions still prevail and SANRAL appeals to road users to continue to prioritise road safety.
Follow @N3Route on X for regular, verified traffic updates or contact the 24-hour N3 Helpline on 0800 63 43 57 to report problems or for emergency assistance. SANRAL will also carry updates on its various digital platforms, including X and Facebook.
//Ends
______________________________________________________________________________________________
Issued by FTI Consulting on behalf of SANRAL. For editorial content or additional information contact Lwando Mahlasela on 082 440 5305 or pressoffice@nra.co.za