Traffic came to a complete standstill on the N2 southbound near Amanzimtoti today after a bridge over the Ezimbokodweni River partially collapsed just before noon.
The incident has caused a full closure of the freeway, with officials urging motorists to avoid the area if possible.
KwaZulu-Natal Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) spokesperson, Sindi Msimang, confirmed the collapse and reported that Durban Metro Police and RTI officials are on the scene to manage traffic and investigate the incident.
Msimang advised drivers to steer clear of the N2 and opt for alternative routes to avoid the severe backlog.
She also urged motorists caught in the gridlock not to attempt reversing, noting that “reversing can worsen the traffic situation and lead to additional accidents.
It’s best to wait for instructions from traffic officers.”
Local ward councillor, Andre Beetge, highlighted additional concerns over the infrastructure damage.
According to Beetge, the bridge supports critical infrastructure, including sewage pipelines, and Metro Police are directing detours through Andrew Zondo Road, Amanzimtoti, and Isipingo.
Watch: N2 Bridge Near Botrivier Washed Away
“This is a significant setback for the South Coast, especially with the festive season upon us,” said Beetge, emphasizing that the collapse could complicate travel in the days ahead.
The timing of the incident is particularly critical, as President Cyril Ramaphosa is set to address an imbizo in the area on Friday.
Beetge further revealed that the collapsed bridge might have been weakened by storm damage from 2022 that had gone undetected.
Just recently, repairs from the same storm damage were completed on the N2 on-ramp at Amanzimtoti, where a sinkhole has now developed in the left lane.
The South African National Roads Agency (Sanral) has been informed, and updates on repair timelines and traffic redirection measures are expected soon. In the meantime, motorists are urged to follow the directives of Metro Police and RTI officers on the ground as officials work to clear the scene.
Do you have more on this story? Click to WhatsApp us. Anonymity guaranteed.
