After various mountain passes throughout the Eastern Cape were closed on May 4, due to heavy snow, the passes have reopened to traffic as the snowfall has stopped and snow on the road has melted.
As previously reported by Komani-Karoo Express, Penhoek Pass on the N6 between Komani and Jamestown, Barkly Pass on the R58, and Wapadsberg Pass on the R61 between Graaff-Reinet, were closed to traffic due to heavy snow.
On May 5, spokesperson for the Department of Transport, Unathi Binqose, confirmed that the passes have reopened for traffic.
He has, however, advised that roads remain hazardous to motorists as they are wet and slippery.
“Motorists are urged to approach them with extreme caution,” said Binqose.
He further said that the steady rains also continue to pose a challenge to road users as some rural roads in the Chris Hani and OR Tambo Districts have been affected.
Binqose said that the old R61 road at the Mlengana Pass in the Nyandeni Local Municipality has partially collapsed due to a mudslide.
Abridge at Sdubi Port in Cofimvaba is also structurally compromised and may have to be closed soon.
