HOEDSPRUIT – A temporary detour on the R531 Orpen Road was opened to traffic over the Heritage Day long weekend, providing much-needed access to the Orpen Road and the Kruger National Park following months of disruption caused by flood damage.

The temporary route, which has been under construction in recent weeks, was made available to road users for the long weekend despite work on the detour not yet being fully completed.

Motorists urged to use caution

Road users have been urged to exercise caution, with a temporary speed limit of 40km/h in place.

Authorities and stakeholders have also warned motorists that the detour may close again at short notice when construction resumes.

“Work will resume on Monday, September 28, and access may again be restricted while the remaining work is completed,” Ward 1 Clr Christine Du Preez said.

Relief for tourism operators

The detour was welcomed by tourism operators and businesses in the area, who have been affected by the closure of the R531 following the destruction of the Orpen Bridge earlier this year.

“It has only been open for the long weekend and may close at any time to be completed. It was greatly welcomed by tourists and the tourism stakeholders over the weekend and was used extensively,” said Tom Vorster of the Maruleng Tourism Association.

“We look forward to the day the work commences on the actual bridge reconstruction.”

Orpen Bridge washed away

The Orpen Bridge was washed away in April during flooding, cutting an important access route to the area and highlighting the vulnerability of the local road network to extreme weather events.

The temporary detour is intended to provide an alternative route while the flood-damaged section of the R531 remains closed.

WATCH: Orpen Road collapse forces closure after heavy storm damage

Temporary route takes shape

Work on the route began with bush clearing and road grading, marking the first visible phase of construction.

According to Du Preez, sustained engagements between the DA, Sanral, local businesses and other stakeholders played a role in securing an interim solution.

Engagements began in June, when discussions were held with Sanral and stakeholders about establishing a safe temporary detour.

A private engineer was also approached to survey the proposed route and assist in ensuring that it met the necessary safety and legal requirements.

Sanral gave the go-ahead

Transport Minister Barbara Creecy visited Hoedspruit on July 22 to assess flood damage in the area.

Following the visit, Sanral granted permission for the community to proceed with preparations for the temporary detour.