SANRAL Announces Temporary N3 Closures Between Ashburton and New England Next Week

Truckers and motorists running the KwaZulu-Natal corridor are being warned to plan ahead, as South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) has announced temporary full closures of the N3 near Pietermaritzburg to allow for controlled blasting next week.

According to SANRAL, the closures form part of ongoing construction work near the Market Road Overpass Bridge, between Gladys Manzi Road and the New England Road Interchange. Blasting is required adjacent to the N3, making it necessary to shut the highway completely for short periods.

When the N3 Will Be Closed

SANRAL confirmed that the N3 will be fully closed in both directions between the Ashburton Interchange and the New England Interchange on the following dates and times:

• Tuesday, 20 January 2026 from 15:00 to 15:30
• Wednesday, 21 January 2026 from 15:00 to 15:30
• Thursday, 22 January 2026 from 15:00 to 15:30

During these periods, no access will be allowed onto the N3, including via on-ramps or connecting roads within the affected section.

Alternative Route and Delays Expected

Motorists will be diverted to the R103, which SANRAL confirmed will remain open. However, road users are warned to expect serious congestion, as the R103 cannot carry the same traffic volumes as the N3, especially with afternoon peak traffic and heavy vehicles in the mix.

SANRAL noted that closure times may change depending on weather conditions. Should adjustments be necessary, an updated notice will be issued.

Advice for Truckers and Operators

SANRAL KwaZulu-Natal Specialist Geometrics Engineer Jason Lowe said the closures have been carefully planned and will be managed by SANRAL’s traffic accommodation team, assisted by the Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI).

Lowe urged trucks and heavy vehicles to delay trips through the area where possible or use suitable staging areas to avoid getting boxed in traffic. Public transport operators have also been asked to brief their drivers on the closures and alternative routes, while light vehicles and emergency services are advised to reroute accordingly.

SANRAL apologised for the inconvenience and thanked road users for their patience as major upgrades on the N3 continue.

For truckers running tight schedules, this is one of those situations where timing is everything. Plan smart, avoid the rush, and don’t get caught standing on diesel while the road is shut.