Emergency N3 closure planned for damaged bridge repairs

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22-07-2026
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North Coast Courier
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The closure forms part of ongoing upgrades to the M13 Paradise Valley off-ramps from the N3 after a bridge parapet failed and requires urgent removal.

Motorists are being advised to expect delays when sections of the N3 near Paradise Valley are closed on Wednesday night to allow emergency repairs to a damaged bridge parapet.

The South African National Roads Agency (Sanral) said both the eastbound and westbound carriageways between the M13 Paradise Valley and M7 Pinetown interchanges will be closed from 8pm to midnight on Wednesday, July 22.

The closure forms part of ongoing upgrades to the M13 Paradise Valley off-ramps from the N3 after a bridge parapet failed and requires urgent removal.

Sanral KZN Geometrics Specialist Engineer Jason Lowe said the emergency work was necessary to ensure the safety of road users and construction teams.

Eastbound traffic travelling from Pietermaritzburg towards Durban will be diverted via the M7 Pinetown off-ramp before rejoining the N3 at the M13 interchange.

Westbound traffic travelling from Durban towards Pietermaritzburg will be diverted via the M13 Paradise Valley off-ramp and can rejoin the N3 at the M7 interchange or continue along the M13 to join the N3 at Key Ridge.

Sanral has urged truck drivers and operators of heavy vehicles to delay their journeys where possible, use suitable staging areas or consider alternative routes via the M7, M13 or M19 to avoid congestion.

Public transport operators have also been asked to ensure drivers are aware of the temporary route changes.

Motorists are encouraged to plan ahead, allow extra travel time and obey all temporary road signs and speed restrictions in the construction zone.

“We appreciate the public’s patience and cooperation as we undertake this vital emergency measure,” said Lowe.

“We appeal to road users to comply with the advance warning signs and speed restrictions when travelling through the construction work zones.”