The N3 Toll Route has been shut down in both directions near Wardens following a significant multi-vehicle collision exacerbated by poor visibility from a nearby veld fire.
The crash occurred earlier today when thick smoke from the fire blanketed the roadway, leading to dangerous driving conditions.
According to N3 Toll Concession (N3TC), the closure, effective since 17:00 today, affects all lanes on the highway.
The smoke, combined with the resulting poor visibility, made driving hazardous, prompting the closure as a precautionary measure.
Emergency services are currently on the scene, working to manage the situation and provide assistance.
Traffic is heavily congested at the closure points, with long delays expected between Harrismith and Roadside.
Motorists are advised to exercise extreme caution if approaching the area, keep headlights on, and avoid attempting to drive through the thick smoke. U-turns on the highway are also strongly discouraged.
Thania Dhoogra, chief operating officer of N3TC, stated, “All emergency services are on scene. Road users are warned to expect heavy congestion and extensive delays between Harrismith and Roadside, and are advised to exercise extreme caution on approach to the area. Keep your headlights switched on; do not attempt to drive through thick smoke; and please do not make u-turns on the highway. If possible, motorists are advised to delay their trips to the area until further notice.”
For emergency assistance, traffic updates, or to report issues, motorists can contact the 24-hour N3 Helpline at 0800 63 43 57 or follow @N3Route on X.
The situation remains fluid, and authorities are working to clear the scene and assess when it might be safe to reopen the route. Travelers should continue to monitor traffic updates and plan alternative routes if necessary.
