SANRAL has reassured motorists that the N3 freeway between Gauteng and the KwaZulu-Natal coast will be in good condition and holidaymakers will likely not experience major delays during the Easter break.
The holiday from Friday 14 to Monday 17 April is traditionally a period when there is a rapid spike in traffic on most major national and provincial highways. Heavy traffic is expected on the N3 traveling from the coast to the Reef on Easter Monday at Van Reenen’s Pass and the Merrivale Exchange.
Some construction work may take place but this is not scheduled to be done during peak traffic periods. During construction, traffic may be restricted to one lane in each direction with speed limits in place.
“The introduction of automated pay systems at toll plazas on many of the busiest highways will improve traffic flows and contribute to safer journeys,” said Vusi Mona, communications manager of the South African National Roads Agency.
Road users with electronic tags no longer have to stop at any toll plazas where the automated payment system is already in place. This enables motorists to plan their travel in advance, cuts down on waiting time at plazas and reduces the levels of driver fatigue and frustrations during long journeys.
“This, again, demonstrates how SANRAL’s investments in cutting-edge technology and smart road systems are contributing to a safer road environment,” said Mona.
There will be routine road maintenance along sections of the N3. Motorists should look out for these. Also, near the Hammarsdale Interchange there may be blasting and surface repairs, resulting in the closure of one lane.
Mona calls on road users to obey speed limits and slow down at demarcated areas where temporary construction might take place.
“The national and provincial road network is a safe environment and if drivers stick to the rules of the road and display tolerance and courtesy towards fellow road users, we should be able to cut down on the unacceptably high rate of fatal crashes,” said Mona.
“Driving requires focus. If you are tired, take a break; do not text and drive. Know your WHOA!”
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