N3 Toll Route I High Alert
Traffic Alert | N3 Toll Route is NOW OPEN | Friday, 16 July 2021 @ 10H00
N3 Toll Concession can confirm that law enforcement authorities have just announced the full reopening of the N3 Toll Route between Cedara in KwaZulu-Natal and Heidelberg in Gauteng.
Road users are warned to expect high traffic volumes, congestion and possible delays.
It is vitally important to proceed with extreme caution and to stay alert at all times. Obtain traffic information, report problems and get emergency assistance from the 24-hour N3 Helpline 0800 63 43 57 or by following @N3Route on Twitter.
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N3 Toll Route | Route Update | Friday, 16 July 2021 @ 09H15
Although the N3 remains CLOSED to traffic between Cedara in KZN and Harrismith in the Free State, on instruction from law enforcement, progress is being made towards securing this strategic transport corridor.
Engagement is taking place on both national and provincial levels to facilitate the reopening of the N3 Toll Route and the safe passage of goods and people on this vitally important arterial route.
N3TC will immediately send out traffic updates as more information becomes available.
Road users can continue to report problems or obtain assistance from N3TC’s 24-hour Helpline on 0800 63 43 57 or via @N3Route on Twitter.
Thank you for your continued patience and understanding.
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N3 Toll Route | Traffic Update | Thursday, 15 July 2021 @ 08H00 – The N3 currently remains CLOSED between Cedara in KZN and Harrismith in the Free State.
With the support of law enforcement agencies and the SANDF, plans are in place for urgent maintenance work (including recovery, cleanup and repairs) required for the re-opening of this important strategic transport corridor, as soon as the Provincial Joint Operational Centre deems it safe and secure to do so.
N3TC will immediately notify all stakeholders when the go ahead is received to re-open the N3 Toll Route from Cedara to Harrismith.
Road users can continue to report problems or obtain assistance from the 24-hour N3 Helpline on 0800 63 43 57 or via @N3Route on Twitter.
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N3 Toll Route I Traffic Update | Wednesday, 14 July 2021 @ 20H30
The N3 remains CLOSED from Cedara in KZN to Harrismith in the Free State.
The SANDF have been mobilised and are being deployed on the route.
In consultation with law enforcement agencies, plans are being put in place to prepare for the re-opening of the route.
Apart from ensuring safety and security along the N3, urgent maintenance work (including recovery, cleanup and repairs) is required before the road can be safely reopened.
N3TC is acutely aware of the strategic importance of this arterial transport corridor and is doing everything in its power to help restore mobility as soon as possible, once an instruction is received from the Provincial Joint Operational Centre.
The situation on the ground is continually reassessed throughout the day.
N3TC will immediately notify all stakeholders as soon as there is a firm indication as to when the N3 Toll Route from Cedara to Harrismith can be reopened.
Road users can continue to report problems or obtain assistance from the 24-hour N3 Helpline on 0800 63 43 57 or via @N3Route on Twitter.
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N3 Toll Route | Traffic Alert | The N3 is CLOSED from Cedara to Harrismith | Wednesday 14 July 2021 @ 11H15
Road users are requested to continue to avoid the N3 Toll Route between Cedara and Harrismith. This section of the N3 will only be re-opened upon instruction of the Provincial Joint Operational Centre when it is deemed safe to do so.
N3TC will immediately issue public notifications when there are any new developments.
Road users can report problems or obtain assistance from the 24-hour N3 Helpline on 0800 63 43 57 or stay informed by following @N3Route on Twitter.
ENDS
N3 Toll Route | Traffic Alert | The N3 is OPEN from Harrismith to Heidelberg, but CLOSED between Cedara and Harrismith | Tuesday, 13 July 2021 @ 13H15
The northern section of the N3 Toll Route has now been re-opened to traffic.
Although road users will once again be able to travel between Harrismith in the Free State and Heidelberg in Gauteng, they continue to be advised to do so with extreme caution.
The southern section of the route remains CLOSED. All vehicles will continue to be diverted and/ or turned back from the N3 Toll Route – southbound at Harrismith near the Highway Junction Truck Stop and northbound at the Howick/Midmar turn off.
N3TC’s Route Services are continuing to monitor and patrol the N3 Toll Route.
Unfortunately, the situation around Mooi River and other parts of KwaZulu-Natal remains volatile, causing high safety and security risks for road users, service operators, as well as to the operation and assets of the N3 Toll Route. Thus, the entire southern section of the route between Cedara and Harrismith remains CLOSED.
Furthermore, support services such as recovery teams, towing services and clean-up crews are currently unavailable to assist with clearing of parts of the route following the recent spate of riots and civil unrest.
The southern section of the N3 Toll Route will only be re-opened on guidance and instruction of the Provincial Joint Operational Centres (KZN and Free State JOCs), and only once it has been deemed safe to do so, and the clean-up and recovery operations have been completed.
No new reports of violent unrest or looting on the N3 Toll Route have been received thus far today, but the situation on the ground continues to be closely monitored and regularly assessed. All services remain on high alert to the possibility of any further sporadic acts of violence or unrest.
Local residents and road users are requested to immediately report any problems or concerns to N3TC’s 24-hour helpline on 0800 63 43 57. Route updates and emergency assistance on the N3 Toll Route can also be obtained by contacting the helpline or by following @N3Route on Twitter.
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N3 Toll Route I Urgent Traffic Alert | The entire N3 Toll Route from Cedara to Heidelberg NOW CLOSED | Monday, 12 July 2021 @ 20H50
Following ongoing threats to the safety and security of road users as well as the operation and assets of the N3 Toll Route, THE ENTIRE N3 TOLL ROUTE from Cedara in KwaZulu-Natal to Heidelberg South in Gauteng has been CLOSED to traffic.
A section of the route, from Cedara to Harrismith, has been closed since the early hours of this morning.
New reports have been received tonight of a violent mob looting the Engen Tugela One Stop North, and of protestors burning tyres along this section of the route.
The security of Tugela Plaza in KwaZulu-Natal and De Hoek Plaza, near Heidelberg in Gauteng, is also under renewed threat. Due to the safety concerns, personnel have been evacuated from all toll plazas on the route.
Local residents and road users are advised to continue to avoid the N3 Toll Route in its entirety until the situation has stabilized and the route re-opened to traffic.
Immediately report problems or get emergency assistance from N3TC’s 24-hour helpline on 0800 63 43 57 or @N3Route on Twitter
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N3 Toll Route | Traffic Update – Total Road Closure I Monday, 12 July 2021 @ 14H30
The N3 Toll Route between Harrismith and Cedara REMAINS CLOSED in the interests of safety and security.
At this point it is unclear when the route will be re-opened to traffic.
Road users are advised to continue to avoid the area until further notice.
For emergencies please contact the 24/7 #N3Helpline on 0800 63 43 57 or following us on Twitter @N3Route.
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N3 Toll Route I High Alert – TOTAL ROAD CLOSURE from Harrismith to Cedara I Monday, 12 July 2021 @ 08H30
A total closure, of both the south- and northbound carriageways of the N3 Toll Route, remains in place from Harrismith in the Free State to Cedara in KwaZulu- Natal.
This strategic transport route to the Port of Durban will most likely remain closed for most of the day as a result of the spate of violent and uncontrollable attacks on infrastructure, heavy motor vehicles and businesses along the route.
Under these conditions, the security and safety of the N3 Toll Route, it’s operations and road users cannot be placed at further risk.
Numerous reports of protests continue to be received from communities along the majority of the N3, including Heidelberg and Pietermaritzburg.
In light of the ongoing spate of violent attacks, road users are strongly recommended to delay their trips until further notice to avoid these volatile areas.
It is as yet unclear when clean-up operations and recovery would commence, or what the current damage to infrastructure is.
Please immediately report any emergencies or problems to the 24-hour N3 helpline:
0800 63 43 57 or via @N3Route on Twitter.
ENDS.
N3 Toll Route I Traffic Update – N3 REMAINS CLOSED I Monday, 12 July 2021 @ 08H00
The N3 Toll Route remains closed in both directions from Harrismith to Cedara. Reports of unrest are also being received from communities in Heidelberg and Pietermaritzburg. More information will follow shortly.
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N3 Toll Route I HIGH ALERT – KWAZULU-NATAL I N3 CLOSED FROM HARRISMITH TO CEDARA I Monday, 12 July 2021 @ 00H30
The entire N3 Toll Route (in both the south- and northbound directions) from Harrismith in the Free State to Cedara in Kwazulu-Natal is NOW CLOSED TO TRAFFIC as a result of the current spate of uncontrollable violent attacks on road users, trucks, security and emergency services and businesses.
The Mooi River South (Wimpy) Ramp Plaza near Mooi River as well as the Mooi River Enforcement Park Home facility were set alight. Truck fires have also been reported in the vicinity of the Mooi and Tugela plazas, and more threats are being received in this region.
In the light of this, and in the interests of safety and security Mooi and Tugela toll plazas have also been closed.
All vehicles should immediately return to the nearest place of safety and remain there until further notice.
N3TC strongly recommends that road users avoid these volatile areas.
Please immediately report any emergencies or problems to the 24-hour N3 helpline: 0800 63 43 57 or via @N3Route on Twitter.
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N3 Toll Route I Urgent Notice I Entire N3 Toll Route in both directions will immediately be closed from Harrismith to Cedara. More info to follow. I Monday, 12 July 2021 @ 00H04
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N3 Toll Route I Urgent Traffic Alert I Violent Protests at Mooi River result in CLOSURE OF ALL LANES I Sunday, 11 July 2021 @ 23H40
As a result of the violent protests, and in the interests of the safety and security of road users and staff, all lanes on the N3 Toll Route near Mooi River and at the Mooi Toll Plaza have now been closed to traffic.
Southbound traffic is being diverted at Midway and Northbound traffic at Midmar/Howick.
N3TC strongly recommends that road users avoid the area until further notice.
Please immediately report any emergencies or problems to the 24-hour N3 helpline:
0800 63 43 57 or via @N3Route on Twitter.
ENDS.
N3 Toll Route I Urgent Traffic Alert | Protest Action – Bruntville I Sunday, 11 July 2021 @ 22H20
Violent protests at Bruntville in the vicinity of Mooi Plaza. A truck has just been set alight on the northbound approach of the Mooi South Ramp Plaza.
Please avoid the area if possible.
Immediately report problems or get emergency assistance from N3TC’s 24-hour helpline:
0800 63 43 57 or via @N3Route on Twitter.
ENDS.
N3 Toll Route | Traffic Update – Aftermath of Mooi River riots | ALL LANES OPEN I Sun, 11 July 2021 @ 09H00
Both carriageways on the N3 Toll Route are OPEN to traffic in the vicinity of Mooi Plaza.
The southbound carriageway was cleared and re-opened just before 20h00 last night, whilst the northbound lanes could only be re-opened shortly before midnight.
This follows a mammoth operation to clear the debris and wreckages of 23 trucks which were set alight in violent protests on Friday night. The rioters forced a total closure of this strategic transport corridor near Mooi River, which lasted more than 24 hours.
Miraculously, no loss of life or serious injuries were reported, but the economic impact is vast, including extensive damage to a section of the road surface, particularly on the northbound carriageway.
Heavy vehicles were stacked on the highway since the start of the protests on Friday night. All traffic backlogs were cleared last night and traffic is currently flowing freely, with no further incidents reported this morning.
“N3TC wishes to extend its gratitude to law enforcement and emergency services officials for their tireless efforts to secure and re-open the roadway.
We would also like to acknowledge the efforts of the local humanitarian group, Al-Imdaad Foundation, for their support of stranded truck drivers, and all road users for their continued understanding and patience under what were extremely difficult conditions. Thank you,” says Thania Dhoogra, operations manager of N3 Toll Concession.
“There remains a strong security presence in the area, but the probability of sporadic protests, especially at night, cannot be ruled out.
It is, therefore, advisable to stay informed of traffic conditions on the route at all times. Road users can do so by following N3TC on Twitter: @N3Route, or by contacting the 24-hour N3 helpline on 0800 63 43 57 for emergency assistance or to report any problems,” stresses Ms Dhoogra.
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N3 Toll Route I Traffic Update I Protest Action I Saturday, 10 July @ 22H00
Protests at Sand River, between Bergville and Tugela have been resolved.
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N3 Toll Route I Traffic Update I Protest Action I Saturday, 10 July @ 20H40
- no protests at Van Reenen
- problems at Tweedie have been resolved
- protests at Sand River, between Bergville interchange and Tugela Plaza
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N3 Toll Route I Traffic Update I Protest Action – SOUTBOUND LANES OPEN at Mooi Plaza I Saturday, 10 July 2021 @ 19H52
Reports are being received of looting and tyres burning at the following areas along the N3 Toll Route:
- near Tweedie
- at Sand River between Tugela Plaza and Bergville
- at Van Reenen’s Pass
Please avoid these areas until further notice.
Clean-up and recovery operations are continuing in the vicinity of Mooi Plaza.
The southbound lanes at Mooi River have just been re-opened to traffic. Extensive backlogs and delays should continue to be expected.
Immediately report problems or get emergency assistance from N3TC’s 24-hour helpline:
0800 63 43 57 or from @N3Route on Twitter.
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N3 Toll Route I Traffic Alert I Protest action at Tweedie, KZN I Saturday, 10 July 2021 @ 19H30
JUST IN: Protestors are looting trucks and burning tyres in the vicinity of Tweedie on the N3 Toll Route. Please avoid the area if possible.
Clean-up and recovery operations are continuing in the vicinity of Mooi Plaza.
Immediately report problems or get emergency assistance from N3TC’s 24-hour helpline:
0800 63 43 57 or from @N3Route on Twitter.
ENDS.
N3 Toll Route I Traffic Update I AFTERMATH of Mooi River riots Saturday, 10 July @ 12h00
The entire roadway in the vicinity of Mooi Plaza remains CLOSED while clean-up operations continue at the scene of last night’s riots.
North- and southbound traffic are still being diverted. Road users continue to plan for slow moving traffic and delays.
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N3 Toll Route | Traffic Update I Aftermath of Mooi River riots | Sat, 10 July 2021 @ 12h00
The entire roadway in the vicinity of Mooi Plaza remains CLOSED while clean-up operations continue at the scene of last night’s riots. North- and southbound traffic are still being diverted. Road users should continue to plan for slow moving traffic and delays.
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N3 Toll Route | Traffic Update I Aftermath of Mooi River riots | Saturday, 10 July 2021 @ 09H30
Clean up operations are now underway on the N3 Toll Route in the vicinity of the Mooi Toll Plaza in KwaZulu-Natal following last night’s violent protests.
Protestors torched 23 heavy motor vehicles on the N3 near Mooi River, including a tanker carrying a highly inflammable substance (methyl ethyl ketone) and a car carrier.
No injuries were reported from the scene.
Light motor vehicles heading northbound, towards Gauteng are being diverted at Midmar, and then back onto the N3 at Treverton.
In a southbound direction, towards Durban, light motor vehicles are diverted around Mooi River from Midway to Nottingham Road.
Heavy motor vehicles are stacked at the scene.
Road users are warned to continue to expect slow moving traffic and heavy congestion throughout the day.
“Please stay alert and in touch with N3TC. Report any problems or obtain emergency assistance from our 24-hour N3 Helpline: 0800 63 43 57 or contact @N3Route on Twitter.
N3TC extends its gratitude to all law enforcement officers and emergency services who worked tirelessly throughout the night to restore law and order, and who are now continuing to assist with clean-up operations,” says Thania Dhoogra, operations manager of N3 Toll Concession.
N3TC manages a 415-kilometre section of the N3 Toll Route between Cedara in KwaZulu-Natal and Heidelberg in Gauteng.
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N3 Toll Route I Traffic Update I N3 remains CLOSED at Mooi River following violent protests I Saturday, 10 July 2021 @ 06H50
The entire roadway in the vicinity of Mooi Plaza remains closed following the torching of multiple trucks during last night’s violent protests. Law enforcement and emergency services are still on scene, while some trucks continue to burn.
Motorists are advised to avoid the area.
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N3 Toll Route | Urgent Protest Alert I Violent protests near Mooi River | Trucks on fire in the vicinity of the toll plaza |Friday, 9/7/2021 @ 23H00
At least five trucks have been set alight on the N3 Toll Route near Mooi River in the vicinity of the toll plaza. Three trucks are burning on the northbound section and another two trucks are on fire south of Mooi Plaza.
Reports of stone throwing and gunshots continue to be received.
Traffic is currently being diverted and the toll plaza is closed.
Law enforcement and emergency services are on the scene, but the situation remains tense, and road users are advised to avoid the area until calm has been restored.
Report problems or get emergency assistance on the N3 Toll Route between Cedara and Heidelberg by calling the 24/7 N3 Helpline on 0800 63 43 57 or follow @N3Route on Twitter for regular updates.
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N3 Toll Route | Urgent Protest Alert I Tweedie – ALL NORTHBOUND LANES CLOSED I Friday, 9 July @ 21H50
Protestors blocked all northbound lanes of the N3 Toll Route by chopping down a tree and setting it alight. The burning tree is blocking the entire northbound section. Road users are requested to avoid the area.
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N3 Toll Route I Urgent Traffic Alert I Protest Action, Mooi River – ALL LANES CLOSED I Friday, 9 July @ 21H14
A south- and northbound lanes are now closed on the N3 Toll Route in the vicinity of Mooi Plaza due to violent protest action.
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N3 Toll Route | Urgent Traffic Alert I Protest Action, Mooi River | Friday, 9 July @ 20H48
Protesters have set a truck alight on the southbound carriageway near the Mooi River exit. All Durban-bound lanes are closed to traffic.
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N3 Toll Route I Urgent Traffic Alert | Protest Action, Mooi River | Friday, 9 July @ 20H30
The southbound section of the N3 Toll Route is currently CLOSED to traffic at Mooi Plaza following protest action. Reports of stone throwing and burning of tyres are being received.
Law enforcement services are on scene. Please approach the area with caution.
Get traffic updates, or report problems to N3TC’s 24-hour helpline on 0800 63 43 57 or via Twitter: @N3Route.
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