Road users travelling on the N3 Toll Route this weekend are encouraged to plan their journeys carefully ahead of public schools reopening on Tuesday, 21 July.
Traffic volumes are primarily expected to increase in a northbound direction (towards Gauteng) on Sunday, 19 July however, some holidaymakers may delay their return journeys to the last minute, which could impact negatively traffic flow patterns on Monday, 20 July.
Construction and maintenance work
Motorists should remain alert for major road rehabilitation and construction activities in effect at various locations along the route. Reduced speed limits and lane restrictions may have an impact on traffic flow in the following areas:
* KwaZulu-Natal: between Nottingham Road and Midway
* Free State: between Harrismith and Warden, and around Wilge Plaza
* Mpumalanga: near Grootvlei
“Approach these sections with caution, comply with all temporary traffic accommodation measures and carefully follow road signs,” says Thania Dhoogra, chief operating officer of N3 Toll Concession (N3TC).
“Allow extra travel time, particularly during busier periods, as temporary lane restrictions and reduced speed limits may result in delays through construction zones.”
Prepare for changing winter conditions
During winter, weather conditions can change rapidly along the N3 Toll Route.
A clear, sunny afternoon may quickly turn to freezing temperatures after sunset, while mist or fog can develop unexpectedly and significantly reduce visibility.
Frost, mist and fog are most likely to occur during the early morning and evening hours, particularly over high-lying sections of the route such as Van Reenen Pass.
“Before departing, ensure that your vehicle is roadworthy. Check that your lights, windscreen wipers, tyres and battery are in good working order, and pack essential emergency supplies appropriate for winter travel,” advises Ms Dhoogra.
“Every person travelling on the N3 Toll Route this weekend has someone waiting for them at the end of their journey.
Whether you’re returning home, heading back to work, transporting goods, or travelling between destinations, give yourself the time and space to arrive safely. Slow down when conditions require it, remain patient through construction zones, and remember that every driver who travels responsibly contributes to the safety, convenience and mobility of everyone using the N3 Toll Route.
“Road safety is not only about protecting yourself. It is also about protecting others. A few extra minutes on the road is a small price to pay for peace of mind,” ends Ms Dhoogra.
Stay informed by following @N3Route on X for official traffic updates, or contact the 24-hour N3 Helpline on 0800 63 43 57 to report problems or incidents and to request emergency assistance on the 415 km N3 Toll Route between Cedara in KwaZulu-Natal and Heidelberg in Gauteng.
