Road between Oudtshoorn and Cango Caves remains closed, alternative route available

Media Release by Western Cape Minister of Infrastructure Tertuis Simmers

The Western Cape Department of Infrastructure can confirm that progress is being made in clearing the debris of a significant rockfall on the road between Oudtshoorn and the Cango Caves.

Safety remains our top priority. While debris is visible on the roadway, engineers have determined that removing it could immediately trigger secondary rockfalls, placing workers and road users at serious risk.

Specialist rope access teams will first stabilise the mountainside by dislodging unstable sections of rock and securing the rock face. Once this process has been completed, teams will begin removing the existing debris from the road.

Due to a number of variables linked to the stability of the rock face, a definite timeline for reopening the road cannot be communicated at this stage. Once the project reaches a point where a more definitive timeframe can be provided, further updates will be issued.

Motorists travelling to the Cango Caves are advised to make use of the alternative route via the MR363, travelling along the R62 towards Calitzdorp before turning off towards Buffelskloof and Matjiesrivier. This is a gravel road, and road users are urged to drive slowly and with caution.

We thank residents, businesses and visitors for their patience and understanding while this important work is underway.

Media enquiries
Melt Botes
Spokesperson to Provincial Minister Tertuis Simmers
Email: Melchior.Botes@westerncape.gov.za
Tel: 021 483 8067
Cell: 082 431 0068

Celeste Nell
Acting Head of Communications
Western Cape Department of Infrastructure
Email: Celeste.Nell@westernscape.gov.za
Tel: 021 483 4819