N2 Road Closure Between KwaBhaca and EmaXesibeni Due to Scheduled Blasting

• Scheduled blasting along N2 between KwaBhaca and EmaXesibeni on March 14th, 2024.
• Road closure for safety reasons during blasting, maximum duration expected to be 2 hours.
• Motorists advised to consider alternative routes, potentially adding 69 kilometers and 50 minutes to travel time between Mthatha and Kokstad.
• Caution urged and apologies extended for any inconvenience.

Umzimvubu Local Municipality has issued a statement this morning, alerting motorists to an upcoming road closure along the N2 between KwaBhaca (Mount Frere) and EmaXesibeni (Mount Ayliff). The closure is necessitated by a scheduled blasting operation set to take place on the 14th of March 2024, at approximately 15:00.

The blasting activity is scheduled to occur at approximately KM 2.0, which is 2 kilometers from Mount Frere when traveling towards Mount Ayliff. As a safety precaution, the road will be closed during the blast. While every effort will be made to keep the closure duration as short as possible, motorists should anticipate a maximum closure period of 2 hours.

Motorists traveling from Kokstad towards Mthatha are advised to consider utilizing alternative routes during the closure. Two recommended alternatives include exiting the N2 at Matatiele and taking the Mount Fletcher route or via Flagstaff, Lusikisiki to Port St Johns using the R61, and then rejoining the N2 in Mthatha. Similarly, those traveling from Mthatha towards Kokstad may find these routes beneficial.

It’s important to note that while the suggested alternative routes may offer options, they may also result in longer travel times. The shortest alternative route is approximately 69 kilometers longer and could add around 50 minutes to the journey between Mthatha and Kokstad.

In light of the road closure, motorists are urged to plan their trips accordingly, consider alternative routes, and exercise caution when using the road. The municipality apologizes for any inconvenience caused and appreciates the cooperation of all affected parties.

For further updates and information, motorists are advised to stay tuned to official communications channels from Umzimvubu Local Municipality.