Update on rockfall repairs and road closures along the R328 near Oudtshoorn
Media Release by Western Cape Minister of Infrastructure Tertuis Simmers
The Western Cape Government continues to prioritise the safety of road users and the restoration of access along the R328 (Cango Caves Road) following the major rockfall that occurred on 6 May 2026.
Following extensive stabilisation efforts, specialist teams were nearing completion of preliminary safety works when another severe storm system impacted the region between 3 and 5 June 2026. In anticipation of the Level 8 weather warning, teams implemented emergency measures to protect the site and minimise further damage.
Unfortunately, the intensity of the storm resulted in additional erosion and damage to some of the preliminary stabilisation works. This setback highlights the ongoing challenges posed by the series of extreme weather events experienced across the Western Cape since early May.
Following post-storm inspections, specialist geotechnical teams returned to site on Monday, 8 June 2026, to resume slope stabilisation works. These critical safety interventions remain necessary before rockfall debris can be removed and before the route can safely be reopened to the public.
At this stage, it would be premature to commit to a reopening date. The Department will continue to assess progress on site and provide regular updates as work advances.
The recent storms have also affected alternative routes in the area. Sections of Main Road 363 via Buffelskoof and Main Road 369 via the Swartberg Pass experienced flood-related damage, including washaways and high river flows. Emergency repair teams are currently undertaking make-safe operations to restore access on these routes as quickly as possible.
I wish to thank residents, businesses, tourists and road users for their continued patience and understanding. 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.
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Media Enquiries
Melt Botes
Spokesperson to Provincial Minister Tertuis Simmers
Tel: 021 483 8067
Cell: 082 431 0068
Email: Melchior.Botes@westerncape.gov.za
Celeste Nell
Acting Head of Communications
Western Cape Department of Infrastructure
Tel: 021 483 4819
Email: Celeste.Nell@westernscape.gov.za