Holiday travelers between KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng experienced significant disruptions and delays on the N3 highway due to two separate active traffic incidents on Saturday.
As of 12:45 pm, the N3 Toll Concession (N3TC) reported heavy congestion caused by high traffic volumes. Over 2000 vehicles per hour were recorded traveling southbound (towards KwaZulu-Natal), while 1200 vehicles per hour were heading northbound (towards Gauteng).
Two active crash scenes in KwaZulu-Natal contributed to the disruptions. One incident involved a truck on fire near Estcourt, and in a separate incident, a multiple-vehicle crash occurred in the Balgowan vicinity. Both incidents obstructed the single southbound lane, leading to a backlog of traffic as recovery and cleanup operations were underway.
Thania Dhoogra, the operations manager of N3TC, urged road users to remain patient, courteous, and drive responsibly. She emphasized the challenges of driving under peak traffic conditions and urged drivers to prioritize safety.
Dhoogra expressed gratitude to emergency services and law enforcement officers working tirelessly to support road users along the N3 Toll Route.
Earlier on Saturday, a serious multiple-vehicle crash occurred, resulting in the closure of the entire N3 Toll Route on Van Reenen Pass. The crash involved eight vehicles, including three taxis, one truck, and four light motor vehicles. The N3 was fully reopened by 7 am after swift response and assistance from the Road Incident Management System (RIMS).
For traffic information, reporting problems, or emergency assistance, motorists can contact the 24-hour N3 Helpline at 0800 63 43 57 or follow @N3Route on X.