UPDATE 24 November 2023: The R536 between Sabie and Hazyview in open again. Temporary bypasses have been built past the collapsed sections. Permanent repairs are expected to start in February 2024 and last 13 months. Full article in the Citizen.
Original Blog Post
The R536 between Sabie and Hazyview is still closed
Can properties before the collapse be accessed?
From Sabie, though through traffic from Sabie to Hazyview on the R536 is closed, access is possible to the plantations and accommodation providers on the road, including Sabie Star Chalets, Porcupine Ridge Guest House and Bananien Lodge.
Why is the R536 between Sabie and Hazyview closed?
The R536 between Sabie and Hazyview collapsed in February 2023 due to torrential rain brought on by the La Niña weather phenomenon, which affected Mpumalanga and the entire country. The subsequent floods caused loss of life and significant infrastructure damage. Camps and roads in Kruger National Park had to be temporarily closed. At least 300 families were evacuated in Mpumalanga, and President Cyril Ramaphosa declared a State of National Disaster. The cost of damage in Mpumalanga alone is estimated to be R2.3bn.
Other Mpumalanga roads affected by the floods include the R40 next to Klipkoppie Dam operating on a stop and go basis and the Makhonjwa Geotrail section of the R40 between Barberton and the Swaziland Border Post.
When will the R536 re-open to through traffic?
As of September 2023, no repair works have been started on the collapsed portion of the road. The repairs have been approved and are currently in the tender process. As of now, no expected time of completion has been published nor when the road will be open.
About the R536 between Hazyview and Sabie
The R536 is a scenic and prominent tourist route in Mpumalanga, taking travellers from Sabie to the R40 in Hazyview next to Perry’s Bridge Trading Post & Tourism Centre. The road allows travellers to connect from Lydenburg and the Long Tom Pass (R37) through the quaint town of Sabie, Hazyview, and all the way to further Lowveld destinations like Kruger National Park.
The road follows the valley carved by the Sabie River as it descends into Hazyview. This road, also known as the Bergvliet Pass (named after the local plantation), is 22 km long and is thus named the “Infamous 22” by motorcyclists. Bikers enjoy its meandering curves and its normally excellent condition.
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