N3 blocked by truck drivers, motorists urged to use alternate routes

The N3 highway at Van Reenen’s Pass and Tugela Plaza has been blocked off in both directions by truck drivers on Thursday.

Motorists have been urged to avoid the area until the road is cleared. 

It is believed that truck drivers are protesting against the employment of foreign nationals and the fuel hike.

Several articulated vehicles and trucks have been used to close both lanes of the N3 near Windy Corner, Van Reenen Pass. 

Saps officials on scene

According to KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Brigadier Jay Naicker, truck drivers had parked the vehicles on the N3 and fled. 

Traffic has since been diverted to alternative routes but traffic on the main route remains backed up in both directions. 

“Police are on [the] scene and attempts are being made to tow those vehicles that are causing the blockage. The police will also be investigating this matter and are confident that the perpetrators will be traced and arrested at a later stage,” Naicker said.

ALSO READ: EFF protest: Red berets warn Ramaphosa and Lonmin to pay Marikana workers

N3 Toll Concession

Operations manager at N3 Toll Concession Thania Dhoogra confirmed the N3 roadblock at about 6am and also said the KZN Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) is currently directing northbound traffic off the N3 at the Colenso/Frere interchange. 

“N3TC recommends that road users delay their trips to the area. Heavy traffic congestion and delays may be experienced in both directions on the N3 Toll Route,” Dhoogra continued.

News24 reported that the truck drivers had confirmed that they would be embarking on a nationwide truck shut down from Tuesday to Friday this week. 

NOW READ: Slovo Park residents protest after City Power cuts illegal connections

Compiled by Lethabo Malatsi