The South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) advises motorists of planned night-time closures of the N1 Huguenot Tunnel to allow critical permanent repair works following the bus fire incident on 3 October 2025.
Emergency repairs were completed on 9 October 2025, allowing the tunnel to reopen safely for immediate operation. As previously indicated, more comprehensive and permanent repair works are now required. These repairs will be undertaken at night on selected weekdays when traffic volumes are historically lowest, to minimise inconvenience to road users. An estimated less than 10% of tunnel traffic may be impacted by these planned closures.
The timing of these works follows the reopening of the R101 (Du Toitskloof Pass), which provides a safe and convenient alternative route while night-time operations are underway. The Du Toitskloof Pass was closed from 1 September 2025 to 10 November 2025 for construction works by the Western Cape Government, making it impractical to schedule any tunnel closures during this period.
Each tunnel closure will take place from 21h00 to 06h00 the following morning 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 periods, the tunnel will be fully closed to traffic. Motorists are advised to make use of alternative routes, including the Du Toitskloof Pass (R101), which adds approximately 11 km to the journey. Variable Message Signs (electronic signboards) near the tunnel have been activated to notify and remind motorists of the scheduled nighttime closures.
For further information, motorists may contact the Huguenot Tunnel Control Centre at 021 877 5400.
