Pietermaritzburg: The South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) has advised motorists of the full road closure on the N3 Northbound carriageway at Market Road Overpass in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. The closure is scheduled for Saturday, 11 April 2026, from 9 pm to 5 am to facilitate the installation of the soffit beams as part of the construction of the New Market Road overpass bridge.
According to South African Government News Agency, SANRAL’s Specialist Geometrics Engineer, Jason Lowe, stated that the traffic accommodation team, in collaboration with the Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI), has meticulously planned the closures. The team will actively manage and monitor the situation for the entire duration. An additional alternative route for light vehicles is available via the Ashburton Interchange northbound carriageway off-ramp, which will be utilized based on traffic volumes and at the discretion of the RTI.
The closure will enable progress on the R1.91 billion N3 upgrade project bet
ween Gladys Manzi Road and the New England Road Interchange. This project aims to reduce traffic congestion and improve safety by upgrading the existing cross-section of the N3 from two northbound and three southbound lanes to four northbound and five southbound lanes per carriageway.
The full closure on the N3 Northbound is planned as follows: on 11 April 2026 from 9 pm until 5 am, with an alternative date set for 12 April 2026 in case of inclement weather. The alternative route includes a detour via the Market Road offramp on a temporary road leading to the Market Road onramp and back onto the N3.
Lowe emphasized that SANRAL understands the disruptions caused by these road closures and has scheduled them to minimize inconvenience. Trucks and heavy vehicles are advised to delay trips or find suitable staging areas to avoid congestion. Public transport operators should ensure their drivers are aware of route closures and alternatives affecting commuter routes.
Light vehicle traffic, emergency services, and
traffic management are advised to use alternative routes. SANRAL expressed apologies for any inconvenience caused and appreciates the public’s patience during these major road enhancements.