Blasting operations to cause temporary road closures on N9

Update

GARDEN ROUTE NEWS - Motorists travelling between Oudtshoorn and George on the N9 are advised to prepare for temporary road closures as blasting operations are part of ongoing road upgrade works.

The Western Cape Department of Infrastructure (DOI) has confirmed that controlled blasting will commence on 18 March along Trunk Road 1 Section 1 (N9), where construction teams are currently upgrading a section of the route between km 19.36 and km 24.55.

The blasting required to remove rock for construction purposes will result in full road closures lasting approximately three hours during each operation.

According to the department, traffic will be halted at three control points between 14:00 and 17:00 on scheduled blasting days to ensure the safe detonation of explosives and the clearing of loose rock before the road reopens.

A Traffic Safety Officer will close the road at 14:00 to allow the blasting zone to be cleared. After each detonation, contractors will remove debris and inspect the roadway before traffic is allowed to resume at approximately 17:00.

Authorities anticipate about six full closures during the first phase of blasting, which is expected to run from 18 March until the end of May.

Advance warning signs will be erected along the N9 near Oudtshoorn, Uniondale, and George one week before blasting begins, with additional reminder signage placed within 10 km of closure points to alert motorists of upcoming disruptions.

The Department has urged road users to plan ahead, avoid travelling on the N9 during blasting periods where possible, or consider alternative routes.

The blasting forms part of a broader R203-million road upgrade project aimed at improving safety, drainage and traffic flow along the route. Improvements include wider lanes, surfaced shoulders, upgraded fencing and guardrails, and the replacement of outdated road signage.