By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) and its concessionaire, the N3 Toll Concession (N3TC), have confirmed the Van Reenen’s Pass was re-opened to clear traffic late on Saturday night.
Road users are advised to carefully follow the instructions of rescue teams and road traffic officials once they receive the go ahead to proceed.
“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.
“It was a tremendously difficult period for everyone affected, but you have been phenomenal in demonstrating resilience and strong spirit,” said Dhoogra.
Dhoogra urged road users to remain patient while the next phase of the rescue and recovery operation is being completed.
Meanwhile the Level 6 snow warning for parts of KwaZulu-Natal has been upgraded to Level 8, according to the KwaZulu-Natal Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC, Thulasizwe Buthelezi.
“Residents are urged to stay off the roads and avoid using alternative routes, as inclement weather conditions are expected to worsen. According to the South African Weather Service, a Level 8 warning for further disruptive snow is in effect for Alfred Duma Ladysmith, Dr N. Dlamini-Zuma – Underberg, Greater Kokstad, Impendle, Inkosi Langalibalele Escourt, Inkosi Langalibalele Sobabili, Mpofana Giants Castle, Mpofana Mooi River, Okhahlamba and uMngeni. This warning indicates a potentially life-threatening weather occurrence,” according to the statement.