Key Takeaways
- Motorists using the N3 Toll Route this weekend can expect heavy congestion due to the summer holiday period coming to a close and schools reopening.
- Traffic volumes are anticipated to increase significantly, particularly on Sunday, with delays likely where roadworks and lane restrictions are in place.
- The N3 Toll Concession has confirmed that construction and route maintenance teams have resumed work along various sections of the highway, with several lane closures affecting traffic flow.
- Motorists are urged to exercise caution, obey all road signs, and adhere to reduced speed limits through construction zones.
- Proper trip planning and driver wellbeing are crucial during the busy return period, with motorists encouraged to plan their journeys in advance, allow extra travel time, and ensure their vehicles are roadworthy.
Introduction to the N3 Toll Route Congestion
Motorists using the N3 Toll Route this weekend are being warned to prepare for heavy congestion as the summer holiday period draws to a close and schools reopen next Wednesday, January 14. With many holidaymakers expected to return northbound towards Gauteng, traffic volumes are anticipated to increase significantly, particularly on Sunday, traditionally the busiest return day on the route. Delays are likely, especially where roadworks and lane restrictions are in place. The N3 Toll Concession (N3TC) has confirmed that its construction and route maintenance teams have resumed work along various sections of the highway, which will further contribute to the congestion.
Construction and Lane Closures
Although the construction programme is not yet operating at full capacity, several lane closures are already affecting traffic flow. In KwaZulu-Natal, construction is underway near the Hidcote Interchange, where a single lane is closed southbound towards Durban between kilometre marker 59.6 and kilometre 57.1. Additional lane restrictions, for approximately two kilometres each, are in place near the Midway Interchange in both directions. The northbound closure towards Johannesburg, between kilometre marker 6.3 and kilometre 8.6, is expected to be lifted before Sunday, 11 January 2026, while the southbound restriction will remain. Between KZN and the Free State, motorists can expect daytime lane closures today (Friday) and tomorrow (Saturday, 10 January) between the Keeversfontein Interchange and Van Reenen.
Gauteng to Mpumalanga Section
Further construction activity is also affecting the Gauteng to Mpumalanga section of the N3. Work on the southbound carriageway between the Heidelberg South Interchange and Wilge Plaza has resulted in three short single-lane closures at various points along the route. N3TC chief operating officer Thania Dhoogra has urged motorists to exercise caution through these areas, reminding them to remain alert, strictly obey all road signs, and adhere to reduced speed limits through the construction zones. These measures are in place for the safety of both motorists and road workers, and drivers should maintain safe following distances, avoid sudden lane changes, and be patient when approaching areas of congestion.
Driver Safety and Wellbeing
Dhoogra also emphasised the importance of proper trip planning and driver wellbeing during the busy return period. She reminded motorists to "plan their journeys in advance, allow extra travel time, and ensure their vehicles are roadworthy before setting off," adding that "fatigue remains a significant risk factor during peak travel periods." Drivers are encouraged to take regular rest breaks and to swap drivers where possible. This is crucial in preventing accidents and ensuring a safe journey for all road users. By taking these precautions, motorists can reduce their risk of being involved in an accident and arrive at their destination safely.
Staying Informed and Seeking Assistance
Motorists can stay updated on traffic conditions by following @n3route on X, or by contacting the 24-hour N3 Helpline on 0800 63 43 57 for emergency assistance or to report incidents along the route between Cedara in KwaZulu-Natal and Heidelberg in Gauteng. This service provides valuable information and support to motorists, helping them to navigate the route safely and efficiently. By staying informed and seeking assistance when needed, motorists can minimize the impact of congestion and construction on their journey, and arrive at their destination with minimal delay.
Conclusion
In conclusion, motorists using the N3 Toll Route this weekend should be prepared for heavy congestion and delays due to the summer holiday period coming to a close and schools reopening. The N3 Toll Concession has confirmed that construction and route maintenance teams have resumed work along various sections of the highway, with several lane closures affecting traffic flow. Motorists are urged to exercise caution, obey all road signs, and adhere to reduced speed limits through construction zones. By planning their journeys in advance, allowing extra travel time, and ensuring their vehicles are roadworthy, motorists can reduce their risk of being involved in an accident and arrive at their destination safely.