Road to Cango Caves still closed after major rockfall, motorists urged to use alternate route

Road between Oudtshoorn and Cango Caves remains closed after major rockfall

Motorists travelling the road between Oudtshoorn and the Cango Caves in the Western Cape have been warned the route remains closed following a significant rockfall, according to the Western Cape Department of Infrastructure.

Why the road is still closed

The department said work is under way to clear debris from the roadway, but engineers have concluded that removal could trigger further rockfalls. Specialist rope-access teams will stabilise the mountainside by dislodging unstable sections and securing the rock face before debris is removed.

The department added that, due to variables linked to the stability of the rock face, a definite timeline for reopening the road cannot be given at this stage. Further updates will be issued when a more definitive timeframe can be provided.

Alternate route for visitors

Visitors to the Cango Caves are being advised to use an alternative route via the MR363: travel along the R62 towards Calitzdorp, then turn off towards Buffelskloof and Matjiesrivier. The department warned that this is a gravel road and urged road users to drive slowly and with caution.

The department thanked residents, businesses and visitors for their patience and understanding while the safety work is carried out.

Context: storms and relief efforts

Recent torrential rainfall, severe thunderstorms, damaging winds and snowfall have affected large parts of the province, leaving communities submerged and damaging homes and roads. The National Disaster Management Centre classified the severe weather events that affected the Western Cape and other provinces as a national disaster.

The Western Province Cricket Association has partnered with Gift of the Givers to support affected communities. Newlands Cricket Stadium will serve as an official collection point for in-kind donations, the association said.

Impact so far

The storms have affected about 150 000 people and have claimed about eleven lives, the article reported.