R328 Congo Caves Road remains closed after storms; repairs continue

Rockfall repairs are under way on the R328 Congo Caves Road after recent storms damaged earlier stabilisation work, leaving the route closed to the public while safety interventions continue.

What happened

Western Cape minister of infrastructure Tertius Simmers said intense winds and rainfall between 3 and 5 June 2026 caused further erosion and damage to preliminary stabilisation works that had been started after a previous storm in May.

Work under way and inspections

Emergency repair teams had implemented measures to protect the site and limit damage, and specialist geotechnical teams returned to the site on Monday, 8 June 2026 to resume slope stabilisation works. Simmers said critical safety interventions are necessary before rockfall debris can be removed and the route can safely be reopened.

“Our teams remain committed to restoring safe and reliable access while ensuring that the safety of workers and the travelling public remains our foremost priority,”

Simmers also thanked local residents and road users for their patience and understanding.

Impact on alternative routes

Recent storms have affected alternative roads in the area as well. Sections of Main Road 363 via Buffelskoof and Main Road 369 via the Swartberg Pass suffered flood-related damage, including washaways and high river flows. Emergency repair teams are working to restore access on these routes.

No reopening date

According to Simmers, it would be premature to commit to a reopening date. Roads remain closed in the Western Cape until further notice, and the department will continue to assess on-site progress and provide updates as work advances.