Meiringspoort road repairs progresses, partial reopening expected in 2027

Update

DE RUST NEWS - Progress is being made on the R486m emergency flood damage repair project on the N12 through Meiringspoort, and partial access to the route between De Rust and Klaarstroom is expected to be restored early in 2027.

The minister of the Western Cape Department of Infrastructure, Tertuis Simmers, did a site visit on 15 October to assess the progress and receive an updated briefing from the project team. The department is overseeing repairs to about 21km of road damaged by flooding.

The entire project is expected to be completed by the end of October 2028, provided work proceeds according to plan.

According to Stephen Heyns, acting head of communication for the department, the work completed so far includes clearing flood debris and sand deposits from the road surface, as well as removing obstructions from numerous bridge openings. Repairs to damaged road surfaces and embankments are also under way, and both temporary and permanent pavement repairs are being carried out.

“Three major structures will form part of the reconstruction. These include two mechanically stabilised earth walls with stone cladding near the Groot River and a new reinforced low-level crossing over the Gerolms River to replace the damaged culvert. About 8.4km of continuously reinforced concrete pavement will be constructed, while other sections of the road will be rebuilt where necessary.”

Clearing of minor culvert.

Minister Tertius Simmers with contract coordinator Keegan De Waal. Photos: Department of Infrastructure

The project also includes constructing new stone-lined side drains and repairing existing drainage systems. Additional flood protection measures will involve new river revetment walls, embankment protection and the extension and repair of existing stone masonry walls.

Several smaller culverts will be repaired or replaced, while damaged fencing and services will be restored where necessary. Repairs will also be carried out at rest areas and the information centre.

River training works will be implemented to help manage flood risks and protect road infrastructure against future damage.

Reinstatement of scoured river embankment.

Simmers said emergency repairs were progressing well and that partial vehicle access was expected to be restored early next year. “We are building back better by constructing protection works that will mitigate the risk of flood damage to this road in the future,” he said.

He urged communities to work constructively with the project teams to ensure the work is completed within the planned time frame. “Reports of attempts by a small number of individuals to disrupt or stop construction are concerning. Such disruptions could delay the restoration of this vital road connection, affecting residents, businesses, road users and the regional economy. Any disruptions or delays caused by interference with construction activities may affect the project schedule and delay the reopening of this vital route,” he added.

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