MOTORISTS traveling between Durban and Johannesburg should expect to add extra travel time to their routes as the South African National Roads Agency (Sanral) announced that construction on the N3 toll route gets underway.  

The five-year project looks to cover the stretch from Mariannhill Toll Plaza Section 1 (km 25.0) to Key Ridge Section 2 (km 2.8). 

Also read: eThekwini needs R22m for Solomon Mahlangu Drive upgrades

This project will see an investment of R6b to upgrade the road. The commencement of the upgrade coincides with the start of the second term school holidays, which usually sees many Durban and Johannesburg residents make the journey to each other’s city. 

Project planning and preparatory phases, including stakeholder consultations and procurement, were completed over a three-month mobilisation period prior to the start of physical construction. 

Scope of work

The upgrade involves widening of existing carriageways and the rehabilitation of pavement layers. The project also requires the construction of two new viaduct bridges, significant earthworks and the installation of retaining walls and concrete median barriers. Additional technical improvements include upgraded stormwater systems, lighting and road signage.

Nondumiso Mabaso, the Sanral KZN project manager, said that the construction will result in significant traffic disruptions for the duration of the 60-month contract. 

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“We urge motorists to be aware that the impact of the construction on traffic will be significant. While every effort will be made to maintain safe and efficient traffic flow within the project limits, road users should anticipate delays and plan their journeys accordingly. To prioritise the safety of both construction workers and road users, the speed limit along the route will be reduced to 40km/h for heavy vehicles and 60km/h for light motor vehicles during construction. Motorists are encouraged to plan their trips accordingly and to make provision for the additional travel time,” added Mabaso.

Alternative routes

Traffic will be accommodated safely on alternative routes when major incidents occur within the construction zone. Motorists are encouraged to consider the following alternative routes where necessary:

• M13 and alternative provincial roads.
• N3 service roads where available.
• Local municipal roads as directed by traffic management personnel.

While the agency plans to maintain a minimum two-way traffic flow during the annual December and January shutdown periods, motorists are advised to expect prolonged travel times and are encouraged to plan their departures with these delays in mind. 

Beyond the physical infrastructure, the project includes provisions for enterprise development and skills transfer intended to support local businesses and employment along the N3. 

SANRAL acknowledged the inconvenience the construction will cause but said the long-term benefits would outweigh the temporary disruptions.

“These upgrades are essential to improving safety, mobility and the long-term capacity of one of South Africa’s most important transport corridors. We are committed to minimising disruptions as far as possible while delivering infrastructure that will benefit road users and the broader economy for decades to come,” said Mabaso.

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