The Daspoort tunnel will undergo maintenance, affecting traffic flow this weekend.
Daspoort tunnel closure this weekend: Here’s what you must know
Authorities have announced that the Daspoort tunnel, a crucial conduit between the suburbs of Claremont and Danville in Pretoria West, will be closed for maintenance on Sunday, 25 February 2024.
The scheduled maintenance is set to take place from 07:30 to 16:00, during which time motorists are advised to seek alternative routes to avoid delays.
The Daspoort tunnel, which facilitates the movement of approximately 6000 vehicles a day, plays a vital role in the daily commute of residents and workers in the area, including those travelling to and from Iscor.
Opened on 10 August 1972, the tunnel was constructed to provide a more direct route for Iscor workers living in Hercules, reducing their travel time significantly.
With its length of 573 meters and capacity to accommodate a wide range of vehicles, the tunnel’s closure is expected to have a noticeable impact on local traffic patterns.
In anticipation of the closure, the Tshwane Metro Police Department has announced plans to deploy officers to monitor traffic and assist with the enforcement of the closure.
Motorists are encouraged to plan their journeys in advance and allow extra travel time to navigate the detours.
Alternative routes to connect between Claremont and Danville
To mitigate the impact of the Daspoort tunnel closure, several alternative routes have been recommended.
Motorists are urged to consider using Eskia Mphahlele Drive, Van Der Hoff Road, and Staatsartillerie Road as detours during the maintenance period.
These alternative routes are expected to accommodate the redirected traffic, although drivers may experience some delays due to the increased volume.
Residents and commuters are advised to stay informed about the latest traffic updates and plan their travels accordingly to ensure minimal disruption to their schedules.
The temporary inconvenience is deemed necessary for the maintenance and safety of the tunnel infrastructure, ensuring its continued reliability and service to the community.