The South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) has announced a series of planned night-time closures of the N1 Huguenot Tunnel to carry out critical permanent repair works following the bus fire incident on 3 October 2025.
Emergency repairs were completed on 9 October, allowing the tunnel to reopen safely. However, SANRAL says more comprehensive work is now needed to ensure long-term safety and reliability.
The maintenance will be done on selected weekday nights, when traffic volumes are at their lowest, to minimise disruption. Less than 10% of tunnel traffic is expected to be affected.
The timing of the works coincides with the reopening of the R101 Du Toitskloof Pass, which serves as a safe and convenient alternative route. The pass was closed for construction from 1 September to 10 November, making it impractical to conduct tunnel closures during that period.
The Huguenot Tunnel will be closed to traffic from 21h00 to 06h00 on the following nights:
- Wednesday, 12 November 2025
- Thursday, 13 November 2025
- Tuesday, 18 November 2025
- Wednesday, 19 November 2025
- Thursday, 20 November 2025
- Tuesday, 25 November 2025
- Wednesday, 26 November 2025
- Thursday, 27 November 2025
During these closures, motorists are advised to use the Du Toitskloof Pass (R101), which adds around 11 kilometres to the journey. Electronic signboards near the tunnel have been activated to alert and remind drivers of the scheduled shutdowns.
For further information, motorists can contact the Huguenot Tunnel Control Centre at 021 877 5400.
