One of SA’s most famous routes remains closed after storms

One of SA’s most famous routes remains closed after storms

June 10, 2026 discoverhiddenusacom News

Western Cape Minister of Infrastructure Tertius Simmers announced that rockfall repairs are underway to restore the R328 Congo Caves Road after severe storm damage. A weather system between June 3 and 5, 2026, eroded preliminary stabilization works, keeping the route and other regional roads closed until further notice.

Simmers stated that specialist teams were nearly finished with preliminary safety works when the June storm hit. The intense rainfall and winds caused further erosion to stabilization efforts that had begun after an earlier storm in May.

Geotechnical teams returned to the site on Monday, June 8, 2026, to resume slope stabilization following new inspections. These teams must complete critical safety interventions before any rockfall debris can be removed from the roadway.

Why is the R328 Congo Caves Road still closed?

The road remains closed because the province is facing a series of extreme weather conditions that began in early May. According to Simmers, these conditions have created ongoing challenges for repair crews.

From Instagram — related to Congo Caves Road, Swartberg Pass

Repair task teams had previously implemented emergency measures to protect the site. However, the June 3-5 storm system damaged those preliminary works, delaying the full restoration of the route.

Did You Know? Specialist geotechnical teams returned to the R328 site on June 8, 2026, specifically to resume slope stabilization works after a storm system impacted the region between June 3 and 5.

Which other Western Cape routes are affected?

Storms have damaged alternative routes in the area beyond the R328. This includes sections of Main Road 363 via Buffelskoof and Main Road 369 via the Swartberg Pass.

W Cape Storms | Update on infrastructural damage following inclement weather: Tertuis Simmers

According to the department, these routes suffered flood-related damage, including high river flows and washaways. Emergency repair teams are currently working to make these roads safer for the public and restore access.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that the sequence of storms since May creates a compounding effect on infrastructure. The need for geotechnical stabilization before debris removal suggests that the structural integrity of the slopes is the primary risk factor, meaning any premature reopening could jeopardize worker and public safety.

When will the roads reopen?

Minister Simmers stated it would be premature to commit to a specific reopening date. The department will continue to assess progress on-site and provide updates as the work advances.

When will the roads reopen?

The government continues to prioritize the safety of road users. Consequently, the affected roads will likely remain closed until stabilization efforts are fully verified.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which roads are currently closed in the Western Cape?
The R328 Congo Caves Road, Main Road 363 via Buffelskoof, and Main Road 369 via the Swartberg Pass remain closed until further notice.

What caused the delays in the R328 repairs?
A severe storm system between June 3 and 5, 2026, caused erosion and damaged preliminary stabilization works that had been started after a previous storm in May.

What must happen before the R328 can reopen?
According to Tertius Simmers, critical safety interventions and slope stabilization must be completed before rockfall debris can be removed and the route opened to the public.

How do recurring weather events in your region impact your daily travel and local infrastructure?

, , ,