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Motorists travelling on the N2 between KwaBhaca and EmaXesibeni will face temporary road closures this week due to planned blasting operations.
The South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) says the road will be closed for up to 30 minutes on 6 and 7 May at specific points along the route.
On 6 May, blasting is scheduled about 7km from KwaBhaca towards EmaXesibeni. The following day, 7 May, it will take place roughly 13.3km along the same route.
This affects drivers moving between Kokstad and Mthatha — a key corridor used by taxis, buses, delivery vehicles, and local commuters in the Eastern Cape.
SANRAL has warned that anyone trying to avoid the closures will face significantly longer travel times. Alternative routes via Matatiele, Tsolo, Flagstaff, Lusikisiki and Port St Johns can add about 69 kilometres and roughly 50 minutes to a trip between Mthatha and Kokstad.
For many in the region, especially those travelling for work, school, healthcare or business, this could mean earlier departures, higher transport costs, and missed connections.
Motorists are being urged to plan ahead, consider alternative routes where possible, and expect delays even outside the exact blasting times due to traffic build-up.
SANRAL says the work is necessary but has apologised for the inconvenience.
For Eastern Cape communities that rely heavily on the N2 as a lifeline between towns, even short closures can have ripple effects across transport, trade, and daily life.
More updates on road conditions in the region are expected as the project continues — especially if delays or additional closures are announced.
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