Light vehicles barred from key Northern Cape bridge as Orange River rises

FOLLOWING heavy rains and the opening of sluice gates at the Vaal and Bloemhof dams, widespread flooding has been reported in the Northern Cape. 

The South African National Roads Agency (Sanral) confirmed on Monday that, due to rising water levels, light motor vehicles are currently prohibited from crossing the Slang Bridge over the Orange River. The precautionary closure affects a key crossing on the R27 route between Groblershoop and Upington, which remains open only to trucks and sport utility vehicles (SUVs).

“The water level at the bridge remains high and poses a risk to smaller vehicles. We have implemented this measure purely in the interest of road user safety,” said Emile Du Preez, Sanral’s Northern Cape provincial head.

The Slang Bridge, located just outside Groblershoop on the R27, is a critical infrastructure point in the region, particularly for agricultural and freight transport. The closure is expected to affect daily commuters and smaller vehicle operators travelling between Groblershoop, Upington, and surrounding areas.

Motorists in light vehicles are advised to use an alternative route. The designated detour turns off at kilometre 11 on Section 11 of the R27 and rejoins the main road between Groblershoop and Upington via Lennertsville.

Sanral has assured the public that it is monitoring the situation and will provide updates as conditions change.

"We understand the inconvenience this may cause and apologise to all affected road users. Safety remains our top priority," the agency said in a statement.

Motorists are urged to drive carefully, especially near rivers and low-lying crossings, as water levels can rise rapidly and conditions may deteriorate without warning.