The Huguenot Tunnel is the longest road tunnel in South Africa and cost £8.5million to build, shortening journeys between Paarl from Worcester by 6.8 miles, saving between 15 and 26 minutes.
The 4km-long tunnel extends the N1, a national route running from Cape Town in the south to the Beit Bridge border with Zimbabwe in the north.
The tunnel opened in 1988 and goes through the Du Toitskloof Mountains that separate Paarl and Worcester rather than longer and more treacherous journey of the Du Toitskloof Pass which meant going over the Mountain.
It is a crucial link connecting the capital city of Cape Town to the Northern parts of the country.
The two drilling heads used to build the tunnel achieved a remarkable accuracy, with only 3 mm error over the entire length.
The tunnel took four years to build and there are plans for a new North Bound Tunnel to be constructed within the next three years.
The upgrades include constructing a new North Bound Tunnel and improving the existing South Bound Tunnel, both with two lanes each, to enhance the movement of people and goods.
This five-year project plans to create 500 jobs, offer opportunities for women and youth-owned businesses, and benefit the region’s economy without raising toll fees.
The Western Cape Mobility Department has also said it wants to increase the tunnel’s current daily capacity from 13,000 vehicles to 25,000 during peak periods.
Transport Minister Barbara Creecy said: “The project is financially viable and, once completed, it will not be necessary to raise the baseline toll.
“This project will not only create 500 jobs in the construction industry, but will also boost the Western Cape’s economy and help alleviate traffic congestion.”
SANRAL, a South African parastatal responsible for the management, maintenance and development of South Africa’s proclaimed National Road network, said the construction will entail ventilation and electrical system upgrades, with works already underway.
SANRAL CEO Reginald Demana said: “The South Bore of the Huguenot Tunnel was built in the 1980s, so it requires a significant safety upgrade in relation to electricity supply and ventilation.
“Some of that work has been able to happen over the last couple of years but the electricity supply can only be significantly upgraded once we move all the traffic to the new section of the tunnel, the North Bore, which will be constructed over the next few years.”
Paarl and Worcester, located in the Western Cape of South Africa, are known for their vineyards and significant contributions to the country’s wine industry.
Both boast stunning natural landscapes, attracting tourists and wine enthusiasts alike.