The Northern Cape Department of Roads and Public Works said on Monday that the weekend’s rainy weather has made repair work on the R31, as well as driving on some of the detour roads, challenging.
THE NORTHERN Cape Department of Roads and Public Works said on Monday that the weekend’s rainy weather has made repair work on the R31, as well as driving on some of the detour roads, challenging.
Several motorists reported that they got stuck in the mud when using the Campbell detour road on the weekend.
One motorist said that the muddy conditions made it very difficult for traffic to pass through.
“There were trucks that were stuck in the road. The traffic was piled up and we had to wait to pass. The road was very difficult to drive on. A driver in a car also got stuck on the road and some people had to help push his car. One cannot use that road,” he said.
Department spokesperson Crystal Roberston said on Monday that the section of the R31 road from Koopmansfontein to Danielskuil will remain closed.
Robertson said the rainfall has increased water levels adjacent to the road.
“Currently, additional material is being transported to further lift the road. Draining and pumping of water in the road reserves are ongoing. Blading of the road shoulders also continues,” Roberston said.
She added that the department also conducted work on the Campbell and Schmidtsdrift detour routes to ensure accessibility.
“The department bladed the Schmidtsdrift and Campbell detour routes last week to enhance accessibility and safety. However, the area experienced heavy rain over this past weekend which gave rise to muddy conditions.
“The department had issued a statement on Friday, April 1, warning motorists to expect rainy conditions and we discouraged motorists from using the DR3399 Blikfontein road,” she added.
Robertson urged motorists to drive with caution and to adhere to the road signs.
“We were informed by the traffic officers that some motorists are ignoring the road closure warning signs. The department will not be held liable for any damages or loss of property or life.”
