Update: All lanes open at Van Reenen’s Pass, yet delays are expected due to the backlog of traffic

With law enforcement, emergency services and recovery services working through the night, N3 Toll Concession (N3TC) can now confirm that all lanes (both north- and southbound) have been re-opened to traffic again at Van Reenen’s Pass (between Harrismith and Tugela Plaza/Ladysmith).

Between 60 and 70 trucks had to be towed away after protesters blocked this national route at Van Reenen.

Read initial story: Warning: Protest action on the N3 at Van Reenen’s Pass

Also read: Watch: Truck drivers protest on N3 at Van Reenen’s Pass (KZN)

Heavy vehicles were stacked over at least a 10km distance in both directions of the N3 Toll Route in the vicinity of Van Reenen and large volumes of traffic were diverted away from this area.

Emergency services cleared the northbound section for traffic last night (June 20) and re-opened the southbound lanes this morning (June 21).

Read also: Must See: Van Reenen’s Pass is closed due to truck protest on the N3

Also read: Watch: Member of Parliament on scene at truck drivers’ protest on N3, Van Reenen

“N3TC expresses its gratitude to all services and road users for the sterling support received at this challenging time,” said N3TC commercial manager Con Roux.

“We expect busy traffic conditions today as the backlog of traffic continues to be cleared, and request both truckers and motorists to be extra cautious and patient,” concluded Roux.

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