Name and Location
Huguenot tunnel north bore project, Western Cape, South Africa.

Client
South African National Roads Agency Limited (Sanral).

Project Description
The 4 km Huguenot South tunnel reduces the distance between Paarl and Worcester, in the Western Cape, by 11 km and eliminates a climb of about 500 m over the steep Du Toitskloof Pass.

Existing safety equipment in the tunnel, however, has reached the end of its life cycle and its replacement has become urgent.

Extensive improvements have to be made to the safety and firefighting equipment, including the installation of jet fans to improve airflow and mechanically controlled dampers in the tunnel ceiling, as well as the replacement of switchgear and ventilation bypass doors.

The refurbishments will take six to eight months to complete. However, because of the nature of the work, no traffic can be allowed in the tunnel during this time, and rerouting traffic over the Du Toitskloof Pass for such a long period is not deemed viable. Scaffolding will have to be erected to undertake the work, as a stop-go control system is not recommended, as it will increase the risk of accidents.

Owing to these safety concerns, construction of the north bore at the Huguenot tunnel has become essential. Once this has been completed, traffic will be diverted to this tunnel, allowing for improvements to the south bore systems.

The proposed twin-tunnel operation will make maintenance easier, reduce the impact of an accident or a fire and will allow for better traffic control.

Value
The refurbishments on the south bore tunnel and the upgrading of the second bore will be funded as part of the N1/N2 Winelands Toll Highway Project.

Duration
Not stated.

Latest Developments
None stated.

Key Contracts and Suppliers
None stated.

On Budget and on Time?
Not stated.

Contact Details for Project Information
Sanral press office, email pressoffice@nra.co.za.