*Statement by Mayor Linda Jaquet*
*1. Background and Extent of Damage*
We are all aware that the recent flood caused significant damage to the Meiringspoort road network. According to the Western Cape Department of Infrastructure, the extent of the damage exceeds anything seen since the early 1980s and is considerably worse than the 1996 flood.
The primary cause was the substantial increase in water and flood levels, made worse by large quantities of debris and tree trunks carried downstream. Several rockfalls also blocked and damaged the road.
*2. Technical Assessment*
Three sections of the road through the pass have been completely washed away. At the worst affected points, the damage is approximately 1.7 metres deep over lengths of 20 to 25 metres. Road shoulders and supporting structures have been entirely destroyed.
*3. Phased Repair Process*
Due to the scale of the damage, the road cannot be rebuilt immediately. Repair must follow a strict process:
• Phase 1: Cleaning and debris removal
• Phase 2: Full structural engineering assessment
• Phase 3: Final cost estimation
No permanent repair work may begin before the engineering assessment is complete.
*4. Financial Implications and Timeline*
• Preliminary damage estimate: exceeds R421 million
• Repair timeline: approximately 26 months (excluding the initial cleaning phase)
• Authorities will attempt a temporary single-lane “stop-and-go” system within the broader project timeline. There is no firm date when this system will be operational.
The road is therefore expected to remain closed or severely disrupted for an extended period.
*5. Heritage and Environmental Constraints*
Meiringspoort is an officially designated heritage route. According to the Department of Infrastructure, the road must be restored in a way that preserves its original historical character – modern realignments are not permitted. Strict environmental controls will also apply to protect the river ecosystem. These legal obligations mean the restoration process cannot be accelerated.
This closure is not simply an inconvenience. It poses a daily hardship for residents, farmers and businesses in our area.
We ask for your patience and understanding. The complex restoration process cannot be sped up due to legal, environmental and engineering requirements.
Alternative routes have been identified and should be used for the duration of the closure.
