The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport announces the opening of the N3 between Hilton and Cedara after long hours of closure following a multi vehicle crash this afternoon.
The vehicles have now started to move amid long backlogs of traffic on the N3 northbound (Johannesburg bound).
Various government response emergencies have had to work tirelessly to ensure the reopening of the freeway.
The road was opened after the recovery of all the five bodies of the deceased, assisting survivors on scene and transporting critical patients to health care facilities for urgent medical attention.
This multi disciplinary team has had to work hard in removing the wreckages of five trucks, eight minibus taxis and twenty-two light motor vehicles which were involved in the pile up.
Through an integrated government’s response, various interventions are being made including setting up shelter in uMngeni Town Hall and activating an emergency contact centre.
Various social partners are also mobilized and are also assisting the affected motorists and public transport commuters.
The taxi industry is also providing alternative transport to public transport commuters who may wish to continue with their journey to their respective destinations.
Commenting on the road reopening the KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport, Sipho Hlomuka has commended the hard work by various emergency services.
We acknowledge the magnitude of this horrific accident and the trauma felt by all those involved is unbearable. We once again wish to send our deepest condolences to all the affected families and wish a speedy recovery to all those who sustained injuries.
Some motorists have been stuck for hours and lost alot of time in traffic.
We however wish to salute all the emergency response teams for a job well done under such unfavorable weather conditions.
As provincial authorities, we are hugely disappointed with the fatal crashes recorded during this Easter weekend.
We appeal to those who will be continuing with their journey and those who are still going to embark to be on high alert and ensure maximum adherence to traffic regulations.
To those who still wish to locate their family members or get a status update on the road are urged to contact the emergency contact centre number on 033 940 8484. (SANRAL - 10/4/2023)
Jenny Hammond responded with, "And a huge vote of thanks to the Hilton residents who immediately did all they could to assist the stranded travelers."
St Michael's Ambulance Service member from the scene said, "Wow what a crazy night! Another opportunity for the human race to prove that people are so special. Thank you Midlands Community."
Local resident Cathy Berry's comment affirms the need and appreciation for these combined efforts, "True story. Bill and I dropped Avi off yesterday and were stuck in traffic a couple of KMs from the Hilton offramp from 16.00 until just before midnight. (Good thing we like each other)! We had someone come to the car with sandwiches and water and an offer of blankets."
"Thank you for every single one who dropped off blankets, food, water, tea, coffee, milk, baby nappies, soap, toothpaste and everything inbetween. We live in one incredible community who stand together in time of need." Hilton Buddies representative.
"I sit in the quiet of the Hilton Town Hall. Trying to comprehend the devastation of what has happened, the loss of lives, the trauma of the survivors, a new baby that lost their mom today!
Whilst people sleep to wake to the reality of this nightmare tomorrow morning I sit with gratitude to every single person, business, road official, security group personal, citizen, civic group that stepped up to show the real meaning of Ubuntu today.
It is is hard to comprehend the amount of love that the uMngeni and abroad community has for complete strangers! Blankets, food, tea, coffee, sanitary wear, toiletries, baby needs.
Amongst the chaos and loss of today, there is hope, hope for humanity, hope for our country.
Sending love and strength to all victims and families of those that didn't see the end of today. May they Rest In Peace." reflected Councillor Kate Janse van Rensburg.
Thank you to every big-hearted person for fruit, soup, sandwiches, water, coffee, tea, innumerable basic essentials, warmth and care given generously. What remained unused is beng collected for a Winter drive.
Photo credit: Hilton Buddies
