Durban, 30 June 2026 – The South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) advises motorists that traffic on the N3 Westbound carriageway towards Pietermaritzburg, between the EB Cloete Interchange and the Pavilion/Spine Road off-ramp, will be shifted from the existing carriageway onto the newly constructed lanes on the centre/median side of the road from Thursday, 02 July 2026.

“A brief rolling closure will be required while the traffic switch is implemented safely. This will be managed on site by the traffic accommodation team, with the assistance of the Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI). This is necessary to facilitate widening works on the N3 Westbound carriageway. Road users are urged to approach the area with caution, reduce speed, follow the temporary signage and remain alert to the changed lane configuration,” said Mpho Nephembani, SANRAL’s KwaZulu- Natal Project Engineer.

The N3 Westbound carriageway will remain open to traffic. No change to trip routing is required for motorists travelling through the project site. Motorists should, however, expect a changed lane configuration, adjusted barriers and revised temporary road markings through this section of the construction zone.

This traffic flow shift will be in place for approximately one year, after which traffic will be shifted back onto the existing N3 Westbound carriageway towards Pietermaritzburg.

Further project information and traffic advisory updates can be found on this link: https://www.nra.co.za/project-n2n3-upgrades?region_id=eastern

As required for the safety of both road users and the construction team, full traffic accommodation measures, advance warning signage, temporary road markings and on-site traffic management will be in place while the new lane configuration is implemented.

All motorists are advised to plan ahead, allow for additional travel time, and adhere to posted signage and reduced speed limits within the construction zone. Trucks and heavy vehicles are advised to plan trips carefully over this period and, where possible, use suitable staging areas to avoid contributing to congestion while the traffic switch is being implemented. Public transport operators are asked to ensure their drivers are aware of the changed lane configuration and any temporary traffic management measures that may affect commuter routes.

“SANRAL appeals to road users to note and comply with the advance warning signs, temporary lane markings and speed restrictions when travelling through the construction work zone. To prioritise the safety of both construction workers and road users, speed limits along the route will be reduced during construction,” added Nephembani.

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For editorial content or additional information contact Lwando Mahlasela on 082 440 5305 or pressoffice@nra.co.za