The Western Cape Mobility Department has raised concerns over the growing number of heavy motor vehicles becoming stuck on Bain’s Kloof Pass. It has warned truck drivers and companies that such incidents pose serious safety risks and cause major traffic disruptions.

According to the department, seven heavy motor vehicles have become lodged along the historic mountain pass over the past two months, despite clear signage indicating a strict height restriction of 3.68 metres.

The department added that many of the incidents occurred when truck drivers ignored or failed to comply with the posted restrictions.

In a statement, Chief Director of Traffic Management, Maxine Bezuidenhout, noted that removing a stuck truck from the narrow, winding route is no simple task.

Depending on the severity of the situation, recovery operations can take an average of five hours to complete, resulting in long delays for motorists.

The situation is reportedly further complicated by the limited or non-existent mobile network coverage in parts of the pass, making communication and coordination between emergency and recovery teams more difficult.

In light of the recurring incidents, the department has urged freight companies and truck drivers to make use of alternative routes when transporting goods in the area.

Recommended routes include the R44 Wellington/Hermon Road or the Huguenot Tunnel via the N1 highway — both of which are better suited for large and heavy vehicles.

“Ignoring these rules not only endangers your own safety but also the safety of other road users. It leads to unnecessary delays, costly recoveries, and disruptions to traffic,” said Bezuidenhout

Bezuidenhout added that the department’s traffic law enforcement teams will continue monitoring the route and will take the necessary steps to ensure compliance.

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