The South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (Sanral) has announced that the pouring of concrete for the new King Cetshwayo Bridge on the M13 over the N2 will result in temporary lane closures.
Jason Lowe, Sanral’s Eastern Region project manager, said that Southbound and northbound lanes will be closed on Saturday, August 3, 2024, from 7am to 8pm. “These lane closures are to enable the entrance and exit of concrete trucks in and from the construction area behind the concrete barriers for the pouring of concrete for the new King Cetshwayo Bridge deck on the M13 over the N2 near Westwood Mall. This forms part of Sanral’s major upgrade of the N2 north and south bound, and the EB Cloete Interchange. A minimum of two lanes per direction will remain open at all times.”
Lowe added that as required for the safety of both road users and the construction team, full traffic accommodation plans are in place. Signage, barriers and traffic calming measures have already been installed. “Trucks and other heavy vehicles are advised to try and delay trips over this period and/or find suitable staging areas over this timeframe to avoid major congestion. Public transport operators are asked to ensure their drivers are aware of route closures and alternatives affecting their commuter routes. Light vehicle traffic as well as emergency services and traffic management are advised to make use of alternative routes.”
Lowe said that a detailed alternative routing guide can be found on Sanral’s website.
“Important to note is that the N2 and N3 will remain open, but traffic congestion causing delays may be experienced due to the lane closures. All road users are advised to plan their routes ahead of time and where possible leave for destinations earlier than usual.
Lowe added that Sanral appeals to road users to note and comply with the advance warning signs and speed restrictions when travelling past the construction work zones. “To prioritise the safety of both the construction workers and road users, the speed limit along the route will be reduced during construction.”
The Mercury