Protesting truck drivers have blockaded the N3. Image via Twitter/@SAPoliceService
Traffic alert: N3 blockaded by trucks in both directions
Motorists travelling from Johannesburg to Durban have been warned to expect delays as the N3 is blockaded by trucks at Van Reenen’s Pass.
Protesting truck drivers have blockaded the N3. Image via Twitter/@SAPoliceService
People travelling from Johannesburg to Durban should expect delays as the N3 Toll Concession has confirmed that trucks have blockaded Van Reenen’s Pass (between Harrismith and Ladysmith) in both directions.
This is reportedly due to truck drivers protesting and Johannesburg bound traffic has been diverted off the N3 at Colenso/Frere Interchange.
WATCH: TRUCKS BLOCKADE N3 AT VAN REENEN’S PASS
Van Reenen’s Pass stretches between the Drakensberg mountains between Ladysmith and Harrismith, along the N3 between Durban and Johannesburg.
The protest this morning has led to a road closure, forcing commuters to find alternative routes to travel.
On Tuesday, 14 June ADTF-ASA organisation embarked on a national strike. Foreign drivers and fuel prices appeared to be their main gripes. The N3 at the Roadside/Reitz interchange – between Villiers and Warden in Free State – was eventually shut-off to traffic.
Complaints raised by the group also included grievances with ‘corrupt officials’ at Home Affairs, and even the presence of security cameras inside their trucks. Dozens of vehicles amassed on the highway earlier on Tuesday morning.
“We say no to foreign drivers getting South African registrations. No company should continue working with foreign drivers. This protest will include all trucks, big and small, and we also demand that the petrol and diesel price must drop to R11.28 [fuel price without taxes].”
ADFT-ASA statement
Traffic police are also reportedly stopping trucks from entering the R74 from Free State turnoff. Light motor vehicles may travel through Oliviershoek Pass but the road condition is still dangerous and motorists should exercise extreme caution and avoid travelling if possible.
