N9: No blasting during school holidays

Update Video

GARDEN ROUTE NEWS - The first controlled blasting operation as part of the N9 road upgrade between Oudtshoorn and George took place on the afternoon of 19 March, with the route closed to traffic between 14:00 and 17:00.

According to Jandré Bakker, spokesperson for the Department of Infrastructure, this marks the first of six planned blasting operations linked to Contract C1101, a key infrastructure project on the busy route connecting George, Oudtshoorn and the Langkloof, including towns such as Uniondale.

Bakker explained that controlled blasting is a necessary component of the road-widening works and is essential to the successful completion of the project.

A total of six blasting events are planned, although the exact dates of the remaining operations will depend on construction progress. Road users will, however, be notified at least one week in advance through official communication channels, including social media.

For safety reasons, each blasting operation requires a full road closure of about three hours. This includes time to clear the site, conduct the blast and ensure the roadway is safe before reopening. Bakker noted that suggestions to carry out blasting at night are not feasible due to increased safety risks and the need for controlled conditions.

Motorists are advised that no blasting will take place over the Easter weekend, and traffic delays during this period will be limited to normal single-lane stop-and-go conditions. Waiting times will depend solely on traffic volumes and not on construction activities.

In an effort to reduce disruption, no blasting operations are scheduled during the upcoming school holiday period from 27 March to 7 April, meaning there will be no extended full road closures during this time.

While acknowledging the inconvenience caused, particularly during busy periods such as school holidays and events like the Klein Karoo National Arts Festival (KKNK), Bakker emphasised that the current section already operates under single-lane conditions. As such, scaling down construction during peak periods would have little effect on traffic flow.

Motorists are encouraged to consider alternative routes, such as Robinson Pass, where possible.

Despite the temporary disruption, the department maintains that the upgrades are critical to improving road safety, increasing capacity and strengthening long-term economic connectivity in the region.

The project began in October last year and should be completed by mid-2028.