Ekurhuleni
By Mpho Moloi
In a concerning recurrence of road incidents, Ekurhuleni experienced another bus crash on Wednesday morning, leaving 19 pupils with minor injuries. This incident comes just over 24 hours after a deadly municipal bus crash on the R21 Northbound near OR Tambo International Airport that claimed 16 lives and left 45 others injured.
Details of the Recent Incident
A 65-seater bus collided with the trailer of an articulated truck at the intersection of Blackreef Road and Dekema Road near Wadeville in Germiston. The bus was transporting students from Sekgotlong Primary School in Katlehong from Ramaphosa, Boksburg. Fortunately, no fatalities or critical injuries were reported at the scene. Ekurhuleni Emergency Services spokesperson William Ntladi stated, “Only nineteen children sustained minor injuries and were treated by paramedics on site before being taken to medical facilities.” Both drivers escaped without injuries. The cause of the crash remains under investigation, though it is alleged that the truck, which was ahead of the bus, suddenly applied its brakes, causing the bus to crash into the trailer.
Context of Recent Accidents in Ekurhuleni
This incident adds to a series of tragic accidents in the region. On Tuesday, a bus lost control and flipped on the R21 highway near Johannesburg’s international airport, resulting in 16 fatalities and dozens of injuries. The bus had been transporting passengers from Katlehong township and was near the highway exit when it crashed. Transport Minister Barbra Creecy expressed concern over this incident, noting it was the third serious bus accident in a week, and called for measures to enhance passenger safety. 
Investigation and Safety Measures
The Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department (EMPD) is conducting an investigation to determine the exact cause of the recent crash involving the schoolchildren. Preliminary reports suggest that the truck’s sudden braking may have led to the collision. Authorities are also examining the roadworthiness of the vehicles involved and the adherence to traffic regulations by both drivers.
Community Response and Support
The local community has expressed relief that the injuries sustained by the pupils were minor. Parents and guardians have been notified, and counseling services are being arranged to support the affected children. The school administration has assured parents that they are cooperating fully with authorities to ensure the safety of their students during transportation.
Government and Public Reaction
The recent spate of accidents has prompted reactions from various sectors. President Cyril Ramaphosa extended his condolences to the families of the deceased from the R21 crash and emphasized the need for improved road safety measures. He stated, “Incidents such as these impact on people’s ability to earn a living; they impact our health and emergency services; they drive up insurance and result in expensive vehicle repairs, and they affect businesses who lose personnel in this process.” 
Calls for Enhanced Road Safety Measures
The recent accidents have intensified calls for stricter enforcement of traffic laws and comprehensive safety audits of public transportation vehicles. Transport Minister Barbra Creecy has instructed the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) to meet with all bus operators to discuss ways to improve passenger safety. The RTMC has also dispatched a crash investigation unit and law enforcement officials to determine the causes of these accidents.  
Conclusion
The recurrence of bus accidents in Ekurhuleni within such a short span highlights the urgent need for comprehensive road safety interventions. While the recent incident involving schoolchildren resulted in minor injuries, it serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers on our roads. Authorities, transport operators, and the public must collaborate to enhance safety measures, ensure vehicle roadworthiness, and promote responsible driving practices to prevent future tragedies.
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