The Western Cape Mobility Department is sounding the alarm over the alarming frequency of heavy motor vehicles (HMVs) becoming lodged on the iconic Bain’s Kloof Pass, Cape {town} Etc reports.
In just the past two months, seven such incidents have been reported, leading to significant traffic disruptions and posing acute risks to the safety of other road users.
According to Muneera Allie, spokesperson for the Western Cape Mobility Department, the Bain’s Kloof Pass enforces a clear height restriction of 3.68 metres.
Despite the visible signage and repeated warnings, numerous HMV drivers have chosen to disregard these measures, resulting in not only the immobilisation of their vehicles but also substantial delays for all travellers on this critical route.
‘Removing a stuck heavy vehicle from the pass is a complex process,’ Allie explained.
‘Clearing the road can take an average of five hours, depending on the severity of the incident. To make matters worse, there is limited or no mobile network signal on various sections of the pass, which complicates communication and response efforts.’
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As a response to this growing concern, the department is appealing to freight and logistics operators, alongside all HMV drivers, to adhere strictly to the height restrictions in place. ‘It is essential for HMVs exceeding the 3.68-metre limit to utilise alternative routes,’ said Allie.
Recommended alternatives include:
- R44 Wellington / Hermon Road
- Huguenot Tunnel (N1)
Maxine Bezuidenhout, Chief Director: Traffic Management, further emphasised the importance of compliance, stating, ‘We urge all heavy motor vehicle operators and drivers to respect the height restriction on Bain’s Kloof Pass. 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.’
In an effort to mitigate the issue, law enforcement agencies are ramping up monitoring on the route and intend to take necessary enforcement steps towards achieving compliance.
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Also read:
Urgent call to action as pedestrian fatalities surge in the Western Cape
Picture: WCG
