The South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited(SANRAL) would like to inform road users that the Huguenot Tunnel is currently closed to all traffic due to a bus fire that occurred inside the tunnel last night (Friday).
The incident happened around 23h30. Thankfully, no injuries have been reported except for one response tunnel official suffering from minor smoke inhalation. The official was treated on scene and has been taken to the hospital for observation.
“The bus wreckage has since been removed, but due to the damage caused to the tunnel infrastructure, the tunnel will remain closed until further notice for a full structural inspection. This is to ensure the integrity of the tunnel pertaining to concrete roadbed, side linings and ceiling. Other necessary infrastructure repairs will also be undertaken to fire detection equipment, lighting, communications, inside the tunnel,” said Mike Vinello-Lippert, SANRAL’s project manager.
“SANRAL thanks the tunnel operators and all emergency services that were activated and responded to the incident on time to prevent any injuries or casualties that may have occurred. . Their response to the incident is highly commendable. We will inform the public once a better understanding of the damage and repair time is more evident,” added Vinello-Lippert.
Below is a list of possible alternative routes that road users can use. SANRAL advises road users first to ensure that these routes are open to traffic, and they must also allow additional travelling time due to the current conditions.
Alternatives: Bellville to/from Touwsriver:
Normal Travel Time through tunnel: 1h 45 min
Via Du Toitskloof Pass: + 15 min (Open Intermittently due to construction)
Via Villiersdorp/Stellenbosch: + 50 – 55 min
Via Grabouw/Somerset West: + 50 – 55 min
Via Bainskoof (light motor vehicles only): + 45 min
Via Ceres/Tulbach/Wellington: + 45 min
Alternatives: Swellendam – Bellville:
Normal Travel Time through tunnel: 2h 22 min
Via N2/Somerset West: + 15 min
Via Franschhoek: + 35 min
Temporary closure of the Hugenot Tunnel after a bus caught alighthttps://t.co/8lAx4F01q2#ArriveAlive #BusFire #HugenotTunnel pic.twitter.com/STanBzYWlX
– Arrive Alive (@_ArriveAlive) October 4, 2025
