The South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) has announced a series of planned night-time closures of the N1 Huguenot Tunnel to facilitate essential permanent repair works following the bus fire incident that occurred on 3 October 2025.
According to SANRAL, emergency repairs were successfully completed on 9 October 2025, allowing the tunnel to safely reopen for use. However, more comprehensive and long-term structural repairs are now set to take place during off-peak evening hours to reduce the impact on motorists.
“These scheduled closures are necessary to complete the next phase of the repair programme and to ensure that the tunnel continues to operate safely and efficiently for years to come,” said SANRAL Western Region spokesperson, Ms. Vusi Mona. “We’ve carefully selected weekday nights when traffic volumes are historically lowest to minimise inconvenience to the public.”
Each closure will take place between 21h00 and 06h00 the following morning on the following dates:
- Wednesday, 12 November 2025
- Thursday, 13 November 2025
- Tuesday, 18 November 2025
- Wednesday, 19 November 2025
- Thursday, 20 November 2025
- Tuesday, 25 November 2025
- Wednesday, 26 November 2025
- Thursday, 27 November 2025
During these periods, the tunnel will be fully closed to all traffic. Motorists are advised to make use of the Du Toitskloof Pass (R101), which reopened on 10 November 2025 following its own construction works. The alternative route adds approximately 11 kilometres to the journey.
“Electronic signboards near the tunnel have been activated to keep motorists informed about the closures,” Mona added. “We urge all road users to plan their trips accordingly, exercise patience, and adhere to the displayed safety instructions.”
For further information, motorists can contact the Huguenot Tunnel Control Centre at 021 877 5400.
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