N3 closed, traffic diverted following horror crash

Paramedics have confirmed that the victims lost their lives after the car they were travelling in collided head on with a truck - in the vicinity of Montrose between Harrismith and Van Reenens Pass on the N3.

Reports from the scene are that the truck driver managed to jump out of the truck before it caught alight.

Netcare 911's Athlenda Mathe says the collision caused both vehicles to burst into flames. Both sides of the carriageway have since been closed to traffic.

"We can confirm that the road is still closed, and motorists are advised to use alternative routes. We would further like to encourage motorists to obey the road rules, and stick to the speed limits this festive season," she said. 

Con Roux, who's with the N3 Toll Concession, says motorists are being redirected.

"At this point in time, the entire N3 has been closed, and traffic is being diverted through the village of Swinburne. That has resulted in extensive backlogs and as a consequence of that, we are recommending to motorists that they delay their travels to that part of the world," he said.

Earlier today, traffic volumes from Joburg heading into KZN peaked at around 2000 vehicles per hour at the De Hoek Toll Plaza. 

Currently, about 1200 vehicles per hour are making their way through the Marianhill Toll Plaza.