Bloemfontein: The Minister of Transport, Barbara Creecy, and Deputy Minister, Mkhuleko Hlengwa, have directed the RTMC to investigate the cause of a truck and an Interstate Bus Train crash in the Free State. Saturday's accident claimed the lives of 10 people.
According to South African Government News Agency, Creecy and Hlengwa have instructed the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) to collaborate with local authorities to determine the cause of the crash. The Department of Transport stated that a preliminary investigation report is expected within 48 hours of the RTMC commencing its investigation.
The Minister and Deputy Minister have expressed concern about the increasing number of road fatalities involving public transport. The crash occurred approximately 5 km from Mandela View, between Bloemfontein and Botshabelo.
Emergency services confirmed that the crash involved 41 people. Six individuals sustained severe and critical injuries and were taken to Pelonomi Trauma Unit. Seven others with moderate injuries were transported to Botshabelo Hospital and Busamed. Additionally, 24 people with minor injuries were taken to Botshabelo Hospital, while one person declined hospital transport.
Creecy and Hlengwa extended condolences to the families of the deceased and wished the injured a swift recovery. They also urged road users to exercise caution, particularly with the festive and rainy seasons approaching.