- Humanitarian aid group Gift of the Givers stepped in to assist stranded motorists on the snowy N3 route on September 22.
- A tragic case of hypothermia claimed one life in a taxi stuck on the N3 between Estcourt and Harrismith the previous day.
- Heavy snowfall prompted a full closure of the N3 route, leading to emergency rescue services and aid groups springing into action.
- Founder of Gift of the Givers, Dr. Imtiaz Sooliman, assured Briefly News that most roads were anticipated to reopen on Sunday.
ESTCOURT — The N3 route in KwaZulu-Natal faced an unprecedented challenge as snow and freezing temperatures trapped motorists. On the evening of September 21, tragedy struck when one individual succumbed to hypothermia in a taxi caught in the snowstorm. The situation was dire, but thanks to the efforts of humanitarian groups and emergency responders, there were no further casualties.
The Gift of the Givers, a humanitarian organization renowned for its rapid response, informed Briefly News that no additional deaths or injuries were reported the following morning. This marked a turning point in the operation as rescue efforts gained momentum.
Gift of the Givers Reports No Further Loss of Life
The N3 Toll Concession (N3TC) took decisive action by shutting down the road between Estcourt and Harrismith at Van Reenen's and Oliviershoek Pass on the R74. This decision was made early in the morning due to the relentless snowfall that rendered the route impassable. Authorities had issued warnings about poor visibility and hazardous conditions.
Read also:Nadia Nakai Celebrates Akarsquos Birthday With His Family A Heartfelt Tribute
Despite the challenges, rescue operations persisted throughout the following day. The N3TC issued a statement urging motorists to avoid the stretch of road between Tugela Plaza and Harrismith until further notice. Here's what they said:
"Rescue operations are continuing between Van Reenen's Pass and Swinburne (Montrose) under extremely challenging conditions. Please avoid travel between Tugela Plaza and Harrismith until further notice."
Joining the rescue efforts were various emergency services, including the South African Police Service (SAPS), and humanitarian organizations like the Gift of the Givers. Dr. Imtiaz Sooliman, the founder of Gift of the Givers, told Briefly News that his team had temporarily paused their interventions as the final stages of rescue operations were underway. He added that the roads were expected to reopen later that day.
"There is no need for further intervention at the moment as most roads will be opened sometime today. We won't leave KZN; our head office is in Pietermaritzburg. We also have an office in Estcourt and can respond again if necessary," Sooliman told Briefly News.
Motorists Maintain High Spirits Amidst Crisis
When asked about the morale of motorists who had been stranded for over 24 hours, Sooliman noted that spirits were surprisingly high. The anticipation of reopening roads brought hope and relief to those affected.
"They are happy the roads are opening, and they can continue their journey for the long weekend. There were no other medical emergencies either as far as we know," he explained.
To support those stranded, the Gift of the Givers set up an aid station at a community hall in Estcourt. Here, they provided prepared meals and hot drinks to passing motorists. Sooliman recounted their efforts:
"While hot meals were being prepared, we set out with blankets, energy bars, fruit, energy drinks, and water. We ventured as far as our vehicle could manage in the snow. Some areas were so deep that we had to toss items across the road to reach the northbound lane."
"The community hall in Estcourt was opened to the public to bring donations, and the response was overwhelming. Local businesses and community members rallied together to deliver the necessary items."
By 15:00, the N3 route reopened, allowing traffic to flow once more. The organization prepared additional hot meals, blankets, and water for motorists who had been stranded for over 24 hours. Gift of the Givers concluded their efforts at 03:00 on Sunday.
Couple in Snow Checks on Fellow Travelers
In a touching display of human resilience and humor, a recent video surfaced showing a couple checking on fellow motorists with high spirits. This story, reported by Briefly News, highlights the unique ability of South Africans to find humor even in adversity.
Read also:Exciting News Cassper Nyovest And Ko Team Up Again
The video captures a man and a woman in their car, jovially engaging with others trapped in the snowstorm. Their positive attitude resonated with many, reminding everyone of the strength and camaraderie that emerge during tough times.
