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TRAFFIC ADVISORY

N3 intermittent full closures to facilitate placing of bridge beams at the Ashburton Interchange

Pietermaritzburg, 23 September 2024 – The placing of concrete beams for the new Pope Ellis Drive bridge at Ashburton Interchange over the N3 will result in road closures, the South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) has announced.

“This work will be undertaken as part of the N3 Section 3 upgrade project from Ashburton Interchange to Market Road Interchange,” said Jason Lowe, SANRAL’s Eastern Region Project Manager.

The closures will take place as follows:

• N3 Northbound Road will be intermittently fully closed at Lynnfield Park Interchange on Saturday, 28 September 2024 at 20h00 to Sunday, 29 September 2024 at 05h00.
  • The road will be closed for 45 minutes and open to traffic for 30 minutes. The process will be repeated from 20h00 to 05h00.
• N3 Southbound Road intermittently fully closed at Market Park Interchange on Sunday, 29 September 2024 at 20h00 to Monday, 30 September 2024 at 05h00.
  • The process of the intermittent full closures will be 45 minutes closure and 30 minutes open to traffic. The process will be repeated from 20h00 to 05h00.
• There will be stop and go activity on Pope Ellis Drive at the Ashburton intersection on Saturday, 28 September 2024 at 20h00 to Monday, 30 September 2024 at 05h00.

The contractor’s traffic accommodation team, with support from the Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI), will oversee traffic management activities throughout the rolling closure activity.

“The R103 will be available as an alternative route for light vehicles during the intermittent full closures. While the closures are planned during the hours of least traffic, delays may however be experienced as the R103 is unable to handle the same volume of traffic as the N3,” said Lowe.

“Trucks and heavy vehicles are advised to delay their trips, find suitable staging areas or be prepared to stack on the N3 during these periods as it is not recommended that they access the R103 due to potential safety concerns. Public transport operators are asked to ensure their drivers are aware of the route closures and alternatives affecting their commuter routes.”

The closures may need to be adjusted depending on weather conditions on the respective days. If that happens, a second notice with information of the new times will be issued.

Bridge Beam Location:

Figure 1: Position of the Ashburton Overpass Bridge.

 

Alternative Routes:

Figure 2: Alternative Route for Placement of Beams at the Ashburton Overpass Bridge.

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TRAFFIC ADVISORY

SANRAL warns of dangerous conditions, including snowfall, on its Eastern Cape road network

Gqeberha, 21 September 2024 – The South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) has issued a cautionary warning to all road users in the Eastern Cape, urging extra vigilance due to inclement weather affecting much of its road network.

Motorists are advised to avoid certain roads where severe weather conditions, including snowfall, are expected to significantly impact driving conditions.

Key routes likely to be affected include:

• N6: Penhoek Pass between Komani and Jamestown (James Calata)
• R58: Between Khowa (formerly Elliot) and Barkly East
• N10: Between Middelburg and Hanover
• N9: From Graaff-Reinet to Middelburg
• R61: Between Graaff-Reinet and Cradock
• R67: Nico Malan Pass between Fort Beaufort to Whittlesea

In areas where snowfall is expected to be particularly heavy, SANRAL will implement temporary road closures for safety reasons. The closures will affect these sections:

• Penhoek Pass on the N6 between Komani and Jamestown (James Calata)
• N9, Section 6 between Graaff Reinet and Middelburg
• Wapadsberg Pass on the R61, Section 2 between Graaff Reinet and Middelburg

“SANRAL advises road users to be especially cautious. Snowfall in high-altitude areas creates hazardous driving conditions, and we urge drivers to stay alert and consider postponing non-essential travel,” said Mbulelo Peterson, SANRAL’s Regional Manager for the Southern Region.

Motorists are encouraged to stay updated on road conditions.

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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.

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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

UPDATED TRAFFIC ADVISORY
Mobility now fully restored on N3 Toll Route

KwaZulu-Natal, 22 September 2024 – Following this weekend’s severe snowfalls, which caused major traffic disruptions, and had road users stranded for almost two days between Tugela Plaza and Harrismith, mobility is now fully restored on the N3 Toll Route, the South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) and its concessionaire, the N3 Toll Concession (Pty) Ltd (N3TC), have announced.

The extensive backlog of traffic between KwaZulu-Natal and the Free State has been cleared.

Traffic authorities have assessed the area between Tugela Plaza and Harrismith and have given the green light for travel to resume, but with an important warning: Although the road is now safe enough for travel, it is highly recommended that road users only commence their trips from tomorrow.

“Daytime travel is always the safer choice,” concurs Thania Dhoogra, Chief Operating Officer of N3TC.

“We appeal to road users to plan ahead and be prepared for any eventuality before they set out on their journey. Pay attention to road and weather conditions, and stay informed. Conditions on a road can change rapidly as we have seen over the last few days,” said Vusi Mona, SANRAL General Manager for Communications and Marketing.

For regular, verified traffic updates follow @N3Route on X or contact the 24-hour N3 Helpline on 0800 63 43 57 for emergency assistance. Also follow updates from SANRAL via X and Facebook.
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Issued by FTI Consulting on behalf of the SANRAL. For editorial content or additional information contact Lwando Mahlasela on 082 440 5305 or pressoffice@nra.co.za

UPDATED TRAFFIC ADVISORY
Extremely slow, restricted traffic movement between KwaZulu-Natal and Free State

KwaZulu-Natal, 22 September 2024 – Road incident management teams have now begun to clear trucks and light motor vehicles that have been caught in the gridlock between Van Reenen and Swinburne (Montrose), the South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) and its concessionaire, the N3 Toll Concession (Pty) Ltd (N3TC), have announced.

Extremely slow and restricted traffic movement is now being facilitated via Van Reenen’s Pass (in both directions between Tugela Plaza in KwaZulu-Natal and Harrismith in the Free State) to clear the current backlog of traffic, many of whom have been stranded in the area since Friday night.

“Please note that the N3 remains closed to incoming traffic. Mobility will only be fully restored once all stranded vehicles, and those in the backlog have been removed from the area, and once authorities confirm that it is safe to do so,” said Vusi Mona, SANRAL General Manager for Communications and Marketing.

Road users are requested not to rush to make their way to the section of the route between KwaZulu-Natal and Free State.
“You will be caught up in the extensive backlog, creating further congestion and delays in the area,” said Mona.

SANRAL and N3TC appeal to road users to continue to adhere to all safety instructions, refrain from taking unnecessary risks and remain patient.
For regular, verified traffic updates follow @N3Route on X or contact the 24-hour N3 Helpline on 0800 63 43 57 for emergency assistance. Also follow updates from SANRAL via X and Facebook.

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Issued by FTI Consulting on behalf of the SANRAL. For editorial content or additional information contact Lwando Mahlasela on 082 440 5305 or pressoffice@nra.co.za

UPDATED TRAFFIC ADVISORY
N3 remains closed between Tugela Plaza and Harrismith

KwaZulu-Natal, 21 September 2024 – The N3 remains closed to traffic between Tugela Plaza and Harrismith while multi-disciplinary rescue and recovery teams are working full steam to help clear the area between Van Reenen’s Pass and Swinburne (Montrose) of stranded trucks and light motor vehicles, the South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) and its concessionaire, the N3 Toll Concession (Pty) Ltd (N3TC), have announced.

Their efforts, however, are being hampered by road users attempting to circumvent road closure points and/or safety instructions.
“We know it has been a long, bitterly cold and tiring weekend, and we understand that you just want to be mobile again, but please work with the disaster management teams, not against them. When clear instructions are ignored or opposed, it puts an additional strain on resources and brings rescue efforts to a halt, negatively impacting on everyone,” explained Thania Dhoogra, Chief Operating Officer of N3TC.

Vusi Mona, SANRAL General Manager for Communications and Marketing echoed Dhoogra’s appeal for compliance.

“Until we get total compliance and patience from road users, so the many stranded vehicles, as well as the extensive backlog of traffic between KwaZulu-Natal and the Free State can cleared, cleanup and securing of the road cannot be completed and therefore full mobility cannot be restored,” said Mona.

All lanes in the vicinity of Van Reenen town towards the Swinburne/Montrose junction remain obstructed by a large number of gridlocked heavy- and light motor vehicles (some of which have been abandoned by their drivers or broken down).

Only light motor vehicles are currently being released southbound towards Tugela Plaza under escort of traffic officials. All trucks continue to be stacked in the area.

For regular, verified traffic updates follow @N3Route on X or contact the 24-hour N3 Helpline on 0800 63 43 57 for emergency assistance. Also follow updates from SANRAL via X and Facebook.

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Issued by FTI Consulting on behalf of the SANRAL. For editorial content or additional information contact Lwando Mahlasela on 082 440 5305 or pressoffice@nra.co.za

 

UPDATED TRAFFIC ADVISORY
Road reopened to clear traffic at Van Reenen’s Pass

KwaZulu-Natal, 22 September 2024 – The road has been REOPENED to clear traffic at Van Reenen’s Pass, the South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) and its concessionaire, the N3 Toll Concession (Pty) Ltd (N3TC), have announced.

The Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) and N3TC Route Services will now commence to slowly escort stranded road users out of the area in the southbound lanes (towards KwaZulu-Natal).

Graders and rescue teams are continuing to clear a safe passage for road users stranded in the vicinity of Swinburne/Montrose.
“Please remain patient while the next phase of the rescue and recovery operation is being completed,” said Vusi Mona SANRAL’s General Manager for Communications and Marketing.

Road users are advised to carefully follow the instructions of rescue teams and road traffic officials once they receive the go ahead to proceed.
Please drive slowly and with the utmost caution and care.

“As we gear up to reopen the N3 Toll Route, SANRAL and N3TC would like to extend its heartfelt gratitude to all disaster relief organisations, road incident management teams, humanitarian groups, local farmers, and community associations who have provided emergency services and essential aid to stranded motorists. Your selfless efforts exemplify dedication and compassion in action. You are the real heroes of the N3 Toll Route,” said Thania Dhoogra, chief operating officer of N3TC.

“We also wish to thank every road user who remained patient, vigilant, and compliant under very trying circumstances,” said Mona.
“It was a tremendously difficult period for everyone affected, but you have been phenomenal in demonstrating resilience and strong spirit,” said Dhoogra.

For regular, verified traffic updates, please follow @N3Route on X or contact the 24-hour N3 Helpline on 0800 63 43 57 for emergency assistance. Also follow updates from SANRAL via X and Facebook.

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Issued by FTI Consulting on behalf (SANRAL). For editorial content or additional information contact Lwando Mahlasela on 082 440 5305 or pressoffice@nra.co.za

UPDATED TRAFFIC ADVISORY
Gradual progress in rescue and recovery efforts amid N3 Toll Route closure

KwaZulu-Natal, 21 September 2024 – Rescue and recovery operations are progressing well, but the N3 Toll Route remains closed to incoming traffic at present, the South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) and its concessionaire, the N3 Toll Concession (Pty) Ltd (N3TC), have announced.

With the exception of the section between Van Reenen and Swinburne (Montrose), all stranded road users along the N3 Toll Route have now been assisted, and the roadway has been cleared of heavy snow.

Additional resources, including more graders, have also been redeployed to assist on Van Reenen’s Pass. Disaster management officials from both KwaZulu-Natal and the Free State are working tirelessly from both directions towards the top of Van Reenen’s Pass.

As soon as this phase of the rescue operation is complete, road incident management system teams will commence with the application of a brine solution on road surfaces along the route to assist in preventing the formation of black ice.

“Please continue to be patient as the emergency teams work to get to all stranded road users,” said Vusi Mona SANRAL’s General Manager for Communications and Marketing.

For regular, verified traffic updates, please follow @N3Route on X or contact the 24-hour N3 Helpline on 0800 63 43 57 for emergency assistance. Also follow updates from SANRAL via X and Facebook.
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Issued by FTI Consulting on behalf (SANRAL). For editorial content or additional information contact Lwando Mahlasela on 082 440 5305 or pressoffice@nra.co.za