High traffic volumes between 1500 and 2000 vehicles per hour are expected in a northbound direction (towards Gauteng) on Saturday (07 January), and Sunday (08 January). Busy conditions are likely to continue early next week as inland schools reopen on Wednesday, 11 January 2023.

Construction activities on the N3 Toll Route will recommence fully from next week. This weekend, a short section of the route (between Vaaldraai I/C and De Hoek Toll Plaza) will be reduced to one lane only in a northbound direction. This restriction may cause a minor disruption to traffic during peak times.

Rain and misty conditions may be experienced over large parts of the route, resulting in poor visibility and dangerous driving conditions.

“One particular area where we request motorists to be extra vigilant is Van Reenen Pass. The pass is notorious for high winds, fog and bad weather, and additionally, the speed differential between trucks and light motor vehicles moving up the pass tends to contribute to congestion and delays, and increases road safety risks. We appeal to all road users to remain patient and to share the road responsibly at all times. Frustration leads to reckless driving, judgment errors and crashes,” stresses Thania Dhoogra, operations manager of N3 Toll Concession (N3TC).

Should it be required, traffic control measures may be implemented by the Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) to manage traffic flow, limit congestion, and to improve safety along the route, particularly on Van Reenen Pass.

On the N3 Toll Route, a dedicated and comprehensive road incident management system (RIMS) ensures swift action to limit traffic disruptions during emergencies, and to help prevent secondary incidents.

“Motorists can support RIMS efforts by planning ahead and staying informed whilst en route. Adhere to the rules of the road, maintain safe following distances, ensure visibility by keeping your vehicle’s headlights on, and reduce speed (especially in bad weather or when visibility is compromised). Speed limits are set for ideal conditions, not for poor travel conditions,” says Ms Dhoogra. “Please take special care to ensure that you and your fellow road users arrive safely back home.”

Obtain verified, up-to-date route- and travel information, or report problems directly to N3TC’s Route Control Centre. For a rapid emergency response call the 24-hour N3 Helpline 0800 63 43 57 or follow @N3Route on Twitter.

ENDS.