The City of Cape Town is taking steps to address ongoing safety concerns along Kloof Nek Road following a series of accidents involving heavy vehicles.
The steep route has been a scene of multiple incidents, including a crash just two weeks ago near Firdale Avenue. A truck collided with a minibus taxi, injuring several people. The driver of the minibus taxi was in a serious condition, according to Western Cape police spokesperson, Wesley Twigg, in a statement. Police registered a reckless and negligent driving case for investigation.
Last year, a tourist bus veered into a bus stop at the Belle Ombre Road intersection, and in September, a cement truck struck several parked vehicles.
To reduce the risk of further accidents, the City’s Urban Mobility chief, Rob Quintas, said his directorate is finalising a feasibility study for the installation of arrestor structures, which aimed at which will slow down runaway vehicles.
Additionally, 18 new “Stay in Low Gear” warning signs have been placed along the road to alert truck drivers to the steep gradient, which reaches as much as 14% in some sections.
“Kloof Nek Road is a Class 2 Major Arterial route and plays a vital role in connecting the CBD with Camps Bay and beyond. Given its functional classification, we cannot restrict heavy vehicles, but we are exploring every possible alternative to improve safety,” said Quintas.
Quintas said a recent speed study found most drivers comply with the 50km/h speed limit, although isolated cases of speeding were recorded.
“It’s critical that all road users take responsibility—monitoring speed, maintaining roadworthy vehicles, and heeding signage,” Quintas added.
Last week, Quintas, local Ward Councillor Francine Higham, and the Transport Planning and Network Management team conducted an on-site assessment of potential locations for arrestor beds and reviewed the placement of the new signage.
The City aims to implement the recommended safety measures in the coming months.
