By Phenyo Selinda
Middelburg – A tragic accident on the R104 near Mafube Village outside Middelburg has resulted in the deaths of six pupils and left 20 others critically injured. The collision occurred on Wednesday afternoon when a scholar transport bus carrying over 30 pupils collided with a train.
The bus was reportedly en route to Mafube Village at the time of the crash. According to Mpumalanga Community Safety spokesperson Moeti Mmusi, the sixth pupil succumbed to their injuries in hospital.
“The number of learners who have passed on the R104 accident yesterday afternoon has now risen to six. This follows after the six learners who were receiving treatment at the hospital passed on after succumbing to the injuries,” Mmusi confirmed.
Initial reports indicated that five pupils had died at the scene of the collision.
Mpumalanga Community Safety MEC Jackie Macie and Transport Deputy Minister Mkhuleko Hlengwa along with the RTMC are expected to visit the crash site today to assess the situation and offer their support to the affected families.
National spokesperson for the Department of Transport, Collen Msibi, relayed the shock and condolences of the Transport Minister, Ms. Barbara Creecy, and Deputy Minister Hlengwa. “The Minister of Transport, Ms. Barbara Creecy, and the Transport Deputy Minister, Mr. Mkhuleko Hlengwa, have expressed shock and extended their deepest condolences to the families of the children who lost their lives in this fatal crash,” Msibi said.
“They also wished for a speedy recovery to the 20 children who were critically injured. They have once again made a clarion call to law enforcement agencies across the spheres of government to intensify their road safety campaign involving scholar transportation, as this is the second biggest crash involving a scholar transport vehicle this month.”
Reports indicate that the bus driver fled the scene after the crash, while the train driver and crew did not sustain any injuries. The cause of the accident is currently under investigation by the South African Police Services, provincial traffic authorities, and the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC). A preliminary report is expected soon.
The Minister and Deputy Minister have urged all road users to exercise extreme caution, especially at level crossings, and to adhere strictly to traffic regulations to prevent further loss of life.
Download Here:
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
________________________
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube
#centralnewsza #freestate