News

Deadly Limpopo bus accident ignites renewed calls for heightened vehicle safety checks

Nicola Daniels|Published

42 lives lost in tragic bus accident on N1 in Limpopo 42 lives lost in tragic bus accident on N1 in Limpopo

Image: Supplied

THE Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) together with the local law enforcement authorities were on Monday conducting a full scene reconstruction and mechanical investigation of the bus that allegedly veered off the road, killing at least 42 people on the N1 North near Ingwe Lodge in Limpopo. 

The bus had been travelling from the Eastern Cape to Zimbabwe carrying Zimbabweans and Malawians, when the driver allegedly lost control, and the bus went downhill and landed in a ditch. 

Transport minister Barbara Creecy on Monday visited the scene of the crash with Zimbabwean ambassador David Hamadziripi and High Commissioner of Malawi to South Africa, Stella Chiripo Ndau.

President Cyril Ramaphosa extended his condolences to Zimbabwe and Malawi adding that the sadness of the road accident was compounded by the fact that it had taken place during the annual transport month, where the country placed a special focus on the importance of safety on its roads.

“This incident is a tragedy for South Africa and our sister states of Zimbabwe and Malawi alike. Our roads are economic networks that bring the people of our region together across borders. We must do everything we can, as road users, operators, drivers, and passengers, to stay safe and share our roads responsibly,” Ramaphosa said.

Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba said: “This is a heartbreaking tragedy. Losing so many lives in one incident is painful beyond words. On behalf of the Limpopo Provincial Government, we extend our deepest condolences to the affected families, including those in Zimbabwe and Malawi. We wish a full and speedy recovery to all survivors. Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this difficult time.”

The Motor Industry Staff Association (Misa) said although the cause of the accident is still being investigated, it is alleged that driver fatigue could have contributed. 

“Their families in Malawi and Zimbabwe must be devastated because they have been awaiting the safe return of their loved ones from the Eastern Cape. Among those who passed away is a 10-month-old baby. Another 38 patients were transferred to different hospitals,” said Misa chief executive for operations, Martlé Keyter. 

The Vehicle Testing Association (VTA), a constituent association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation, said for a South African registered vehicle, buses need to be submitted for a roadworthy test every dix months. This includes a brake efficiency test, with no distinction made between commuter buses operating locally, and inter-city or long-distance buses.

Ferose Oaten, chairperson of the VTA said: “It is imperative that these roadworthy checks are properly performed and that the vehicle is physically present at the vehicle test station for the test. It is key that this is enforced. As a roadworthy test is a snapshot of the vehicle at that particular point,  the regular Pre-Trip Checks prior to each and every journey becomes essential.

“It is however important to note that due to the long distances these vehicles cover, the test alone is not sufficient. Every responsible fleet operator should ensure proper maintenance,  and in addition to the mandatory test,  before every trip a comprehensive Pre -Trip Check should be conducted to ensure maintenance of vehicle safety.”

Oaten said driver fatigue remained a significant risk factor on long-distance routes. 

“Fatigue can be as dangerous as driving under the influence. We urge all fleet  operators for both passenger and goods vehicles to carry out the necessary driver checks, plan rest stops, discourage and avoid driving when tired, and ensure that shift rotations are properly managed. Fatigue management must form part of every company’s road safety policy. Every accident avoided is a life saved, a family spared, and an economy protected. With an estimated 13 000 deaths annually on our roads, we all need to make road safety a personal commitment.”

Cape Times