Truck blocks N3 in both directions near Harrismith
Motorists on the N3 are experiencing severe delays after a truck blocked both directions of the highway near 42nd Hill, close to the Harrismith North Interchange in the Free State, early on Friday morning.
The incident, which occurred at approximately 05:45, has resulted in a total closure of the N3 in both directions, causing significant traffic back-ups toward both Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal.
According to the N3 Toll Concession, a truck is currently blocking all lanes.
The concession has urged road users to delay travel to the area until further notice, warning of extended delays as recovery operations continue.
"A truck is currently obstructing the N3 Toll Route in both directions at N3-7X 36.0 N near the Harrismith North Interchange (I/C 34) in the Free State," Thania Dooghra said.
Traffic is reportedly backed up on both sides of the closure, with no immediate indication of when the route will reopen.
The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has also issued a warning to motorists, advising them to avoid the route where possible.
"Motorists travelling on the N3 to Durban or Johannesburg are advised to delay their trips or find alternative routes," RTMC spokesperson Simon Zwane said.
"This is because of a truck blockade on the route near Harrismith in the Free State."
Law enforcement officers have been deployed to the scene to assist with traffic control and to help clear the obstruction. However, authorities say it remains unclear how long the blockage will last.
"It is not clear how long the blockade will last. This is a developing story. More details will be shared as they become available," Zwane added.
The N3 Toll Route remains one of South Africa’s busiest freight and passenger corridors, linking Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal, and any disruption often results in significant economic and logistical delays.
Motorists are urged to monitor real-time updates via the @N3Route platform on X or contact the 24-hour helpline at 0800 63 43 57 for emergency assistance or updates along the corridor between Cedara and Heidelberg.
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