TRAFFIC ADVISORY

Road closure – R27 at Keimoes

Northern Cape, 26 February 2023 – In the interest of public safety, the South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) with Provincial Traffic, has closed a portion of the R27, Section 11 in Keimoes.

SANRAL received reports of localised flooding along certain low-lying portions of the R27, due to dams overflowing upstream in the Orange River.

Subsequent to the Engineers’ assessment of road conditions and related damage, it was confirmed that the flooding and damage to the roadway, pose a serious safety risk to road users.

The R27 section 11, km 73.6 to km 74.6, will therefore be closed for a period of time, as directed by Provincial Traffic. The duration of the planned closure is dependent on water levels which are influenced by the released water from dams upstream, like the Gariep and Vaal River Dam, and repair of any damage this may cause to the roadway. SANRAL will communicate regularly on the status of the closure of the R27.

Provincial Traffic authorities have been requested to provide traffic management and law enforcement assistance in facilitating this closure and SANRAL is assisting in providing appropriate signage and barricades at the determined road closure sites.

The alternative route will be as directed by Provincial Traffic.

“We understand the economic impact of road closures to road users, particularly in the freight and long-distance passenger transport sectors, and we will endeavour to reopen the road as quickly as possible, once we effect the repairs which may start as soon as the water levels reside. We appeal to road users for utmost caution, patience and compliance with road signage and speed adjustments in the affected areas,” said Randall Cable, SANRAL Western Region Manager.