The South African National Roads Agency (Sanral) said they closed the road due to localised flooding along low-lying portions of the road. The agency said they had to close the road to ensure public safety.

Sanral's Western Region Manager, Randall Cable, said they understand the economic impact the closure will have on road users, especially those in the freight industry and transport sectors. He says they will try to reopen the road as quickly as possible once water levels subside.

“We will endeavour to reopen the road as quickly as possible, once we affect repairs which will start as soon as water levels subside. We appeal to road users to use the utmost caution and patience and to comply with road signage and speed adjustments in the affected areas,” said Cable.

The agency said the provincial traffic authorities have been requested to manage traffic and an alternative route will be directed.

Meanwhile, the Department of Water and Sanitation has announced that the Vaal Dam continues to experience a decrease in water capacity. Another sluice gate was closed on Monday 27 February 2023. Six gates remain open and the water capacity stands at 108%.

The department’s spokesperson Wisane Mavasa said despite the decrease in water levels at the Lower Orange River and Lower Vaal River, water levels remain high.   

OFM News/Bambatho Giko