A serious crash has forced the full closure of the N1 between Kroonvaal Plaza and the Kroonvaal Engen garages, with multiple vehicles involved, including two heavy motor vehicles that caught fire at the scene.
According to initial reports, the collision involved two trucks and two light motor vehicles. The exact cause of the crash is still unclear at this stage, but the situation escalated quickly after the heavy vehicles went up in flames.
Emergency services, including Fire Services, are currently on scene battling the blaze, while law enforcement has secured the area. Traffic has been completely stopped in both directions as authorities work to contain the fire and clear the wreckage.
Unconfirmed reports indicate that there are fatalities and injuries, but no official numbers have been released yet. This remains a developing situation, and further details are expected as emergency teams assess the scene.
Motorists are urged to avoid the area completely and make use of alternative routes:
From Kroonstad, drivers are advised to take the R72 towards Vredefort, continue to Parys, and then rejoin via the R59 back to the N1.
From the Gauteng side, traffic is being diverted at the Kroonvaal off-ramp onto the R59 towards Parys, then onto the R72 through Vredefort and Kroonstad before reconnecting with the N1.
This major route, one of the busiest freight corridors in the country, is expected to remain closed until the fire is fully extinguished and recovery operations are completed. Delays are expected to be heavy, especially for long-haul operators running that Gauteng to Free State stretch.
Free State RIMS Chairperson, Mr SS Towa, confirmed the incident, stating that emergency services are actively managing the situation and that road users should follow the designated diversion routes.
Authorities have appealed to drivers to remain patient and follow official instructions on the ground.
Updates to follow as more information becomes available.
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