Heavy Snowfall: BMA Closes Sani Pass, Boesmansnek, Monontsha Ports Of Entry

Johannesburg – The Border Management Authority has warned that the inclement weather had affected operations at some ports of entry into South Africa including Sani Pass, Boesmansnek, and Monontsha.

The Commissioner of the Border Management Authority, Dr. Michael Masiapato on Saturday, (21 September 2024), issued a warning notice to travellers saying: “In light of the persistent snowfall, the conditions leading to some Ports of entry have become risky underfoot”.

Dr. Masiapato added: “Given the situation, the BMA and stakeholders operating at the port, have taken a decision to close Sani Pass, Boesmansnek, and Monontsha ports of entry for operations today until further notice.

“This precaution is taken to ensure the safety of travelers, tourists, and officials, as the current conditions pose a significant danger.

“Travellers are advised that Ficksburg port, Caledonspoort, Makhaleng as well as Maseru Ports of entry can be used as alternatives to enter Lesotho.”

Meanwhile, the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has advised motorists intending to travel between Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal to delay their trips.

“Snow continues to fall on the N3 between Warden and Tugela Plaza in KwaZulu-Natal and many travellers have spent the night at filling stations along the roads,” the RMTC said in a statement released Saturday, (21 September 2024).

The RTMC said the Tugela and Wilge plazas remain closed due to snowfall along the N3 Toll Route along Van Reenen Pass.

Road closure remains in effect between Estcourt in KwaZulu-Natal and Harrismith in the Free State.

“Icy conditions, wet weather, and poor visibility are also being reported along other sections of the route causing dangerous driving conditions from KwaZulu-Natal through the Free State, the southern parts of Mpumalanga and Gauteng,” said the RMTC.

“Alternative routes are also impassable and trucks, buses, taxis, and other motorists have to stop at filling stations along the routes.

“A high number of vehicles have stopped along the N3 at the outskirts of Harrismith towards KwaZulu-Natal and the road is totally blocked.”

The RMTC advised road users to ascertain road conditions before they set out.

The N3TC, TRAC N4, Bakwena N1, and provincial road authorities provide regular updates on routes.