N1 crash update: Motorists face 200km detour as highway stays closed

Motorists travelling through the Central Karoo face a 200km detour as authorities keep the N1 between Laingsburg and Beaufort West closed following Sunday night’s deadly crash.

Western Cape Mobility Minister Isaac Sileku warned that officials would not reopen the busy national route soon because of the severity of the collision.

“Because of the seriousness of the crash, the road will remain closed for some time,” Sileku said.

The collision between Prince Albert and Leeu-Gamka claimed 21 lives and left four people seriously injured.

Two minibuses and a station wagon were involved.

Crews continue work at crash scene

Emergency, medical, traffic and forensic teams continued working at the scene on Monday morning.

“Our traffic and emergency response teams are working tirelessly at the scene under challenging conditions,” Sileku said.

Authorities need to complete forensic investigations and clear the wreckage before they can safely reopen the highway.

Only alternative adds 200km

The Western Cape Government has urged motorists to avoid the N1 between Laingsburg and Beaufort West.

Drivers who cannot postpone their journeys must travel via Prince Albert Road Station, take the R407 towards the N12 and continue on the N12 towards Beaufort West.

Officials have asked truck drivers and long-distance operators to stop at the nearest town or truck stop rather than join growing queues around the closure.

Motorists already caught in traffic should keep emergency lanes clear and obey instructions from traffic officers.