The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has been placed on standby to intervene in the severe traffic congestion on the N10 near Cradock, following a truck accident that left motorists stranded amid freezing temperatures.
The announcement was made by Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa during an interview, where he addressed the government’s response to the ongoing extreme weather conditions affecting multiple provinces.
Severe Weather Worsens Road Conditions
The South African Weather Service has issued warnings of persistent freezing temperatures, snow, and hazardous road conditions expected to last for the next three days. The Eastern Cape, Free State, and KwaZulu-Natal have been identified as high-risk areas, with reports of snow accumulation and accidents causing major disruptions.
Minister Hlabisa confirmed that disaster management teams, alongside humanitarian organizations, have been activated to respond to emergencies. He urged motorists to avoid unnecessary travel to prevent situations like last year’s incidents where drivers were trapped for hours in snowbound areas.
SANDF on Standby for N10 Crisis
The minister acknowledged the ongoing crisis on the N10, where Newsroom Africa reported that motorists, including journalists, had been stuck since yesterday due to an accident exacerbated by icy roads.
“The SANDF has been activated, and we are monitoring the situation. If there is no progress by morning, intervention will be made,” Hlabisa stated. He added that authorities may close certain roads if conditions become too dangerous.
Concerns for Homeless and Informal Settlements
With temperatures plummeting, concerns have grown for vulnerable groups, including homeless individuals and those living in informal settlements. Reports from Barkly East highlighted residents shivering in wet conditions, with limited means to stay warm.
Hlabisa emphasized that while national and provincial governments are coordinating relief efforts, municipalities must work with local businesses and NGOs to provide immediate aid, such as blankets and shelter. He also reiterated the government’s commitment to accelerating housing programs to improve living conditions in informal settlements.
Denial of Abandoned Food Safety Pledge
Responding to a Citizen newspaper report claiming that the government had abandoned its pledge to hire 500 new health inspectors following last year’s deadly food poisoning outbreaks, Hlabisa dismissed the allegations as false.
“There is no truth in that article. The employment process may have delays, but the commitment remains,” he said, stressing that food safety remains a priority.
Call for Public Caution
As the cold spell persists, the government has urged residents in affected areas to stay indoors where possible and to heed weather advisories. Emergency services remain on high alert, with the SANDF ready to assist in critical situations.
Authorities will continue to provide updates as the weather crisis unfolds.