Blasting closures planned on N2 between KwaBhaca and EmaXesibeni

Motorists travelling on the N2 between KwaBhaca and EmaXesibeni should expect temporary road closures this March due to scheduled blasting work.

The South African National Roads Agency Limited (SANRAL) confirmed that sections of the N2 will be closed at midday for controlled blasting during roadworks. The closures will last for a maximum of 30 minutes.

What happened

SANRAL announced that blasting will take place on the N2 national road between KwaBhaca and EmaXesibeni on two scheduled dates in March 2026.

According to the traffic advisory, the road will be closed at 12:00 for up to 30 minutes during each blast.

The planned blasting locations are:

• 12 March 2026: about 9 km from KwaBhaca travelling towards EmaXesibeni
• 20 March 2026: about 7 km from KwaBhaca travelling towards EmaXesibeni

Motorists should expect brief traffic stoppages during these operations.

Official response

SANRAL Eastern Cape Provincial Head Mbulelo Peterson urged motorists to plan their journeys carefully.

The agency advised drivers to consider alternative routes and to travel with caution during the blasting operations. SANRAL also apologised for any inconvenience caused.

Community impact

The temporary closures may affect travel between Kokstad and Mthatha, a route widely used by commuters, freight transport and public transport operators.

SANRAL indicated that motorists can consider the following alternative routes during the blasting periods:

• Exit the N2 at Kokstad, then travel via R56 towards Matatiele and Nqanarhu, connecting to R396 to Tsolo and back to the N2
• Alternatively travel via Flagstaff, Lusikisiki and Port St Johns using the R61, before re-joining the N2 in Mthatha

SANRAL said the shortest alternative route is about 69 km longer and may add around 50 minutes to the journey between Mthatha and Kokstad.

What happens next

Motorists travelling through the area on 12 March and 20 March 2026 are advised to allow extra travel time and monitor traffic conditions near the blasting zones.

Drivers should follow road signage and instructions from traffic officials during the scheduled closures.