OUDTSHOORN NEWS - Efforts to restore access along the R328 (Cango Caves Road) have suffered a setback after a second severe storm caused further damage to stabilisation works at the site of a major rockfall that occurred on 6 May.
According to Melt Botes, spokesperson for Western Cape Mobility Minister, Tertuis Simmers, the Western Cape Government remains committed to ensuring the safety of road users while work continues to stabilise the affected slope before the route can be safely reopened.
Following the rockfall in May, specialist teams undertook extensive stabilisation work and were nearing completion of preliminary safety measures when another severe weather system struck the region between 3 and 5 June.
“In anticipation of the Level 8 weather warning, emergency measures were implemented to protect the site and minimise further damage. Unfortunately, the intensity of the storm resulted in additional erosion and damage to some of the preliminary stabilisation works,” Botes said.
He added that the setback underscores the challenges posed by the series of extreme weather events that have affected the Western Cape since early May.
Following post-storm inspections, specialist geotechnical teams returned to the site on Monday 8 June to resume critical slope stabilisation work. These interventions must be completed before rockfall debris can be removed and the road can be safely reopened to the public.
Botes said it would be premature to commit to a reopening date at this stage.
“The department will continue to assess progress on site and provide regular updates as work advances.”
The recent storms have also impacted alternative routes in the area. Sections of Main Road 363 via Buffelskoof and Main Road 369 via the Swartberg Pass sustained flood-related damage, including washaways and high river flows.
Emergency repair teams are currently carrying out make-safe operations to restore access on these routes as quickly as possible.
Botes thanked residents, businesses, tourists and road users for their patience and understanding during the ongoing disruptions.
“Our teams remain committed to restoring safe and reliable access while ensuring that the safety of workers and the travelling public remains our foremost priority,” he said.
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