Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga has called on road users to exercise caution, adhere to traffic laws and prioritise safety while traveling.
This follows the recent deadly crash in Limpopo.
In a statement on Monday, the Minister expressed deep sorrow and sadness at the tragic loss of multiple lives in a major collision on the D2692 Venetia Road between Musina and De Beers mine in the Vhembe area.
The crash occurred on Sunday, resulting in the tragic deaths of 22 people. Four people were taken to hospital for varying degrees of injuries.
Many of the crash victims lost their lives at the scene, while others succumbed to their injuries at the hospital.
“Reports received thus far indicate that the crash involved a bus transporting mine workers from Venetia Mine and a truck on the R572 road towards Musina. It is alleged that the bus and the truck collided head on, resulting in both vehicles catching alight.
“The exact cause of the crash is still under investigation at this point, with crash reconstruction, investigation teams and law enforcement officers from the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), the South African Police Service and provincial investigation teams dispatched to the scene,” the Ministry of Transport said.
The Minister has extended her deep and heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of the individuals who tragically lost their lives and those who were injured.
“Our thoughts and our prayers are with the families, friends and loved ones of the deceased during this very difficult time of great grief and sorrow.
“We extend our sincere wishes for a speedy recovery to all the individuals who sustained injuries in the crash and wish them a speedy recovery and return to good health.
“We don’t have words enough to express our shock and sadness at this horrific incident. The loss of so many lives and injuries among the working class leaves a permanent telling blow on the socio-economic well-being of the country and families and loved ones lose bread winners and are torn apart when such tragedy strikes.”
Chikunga has emphasised the importance of vigilance and alertness among all road users to prevent such tragic occurrences.
The RTMC, an entity of the Department of Transport has been tasked to conduct a thorough investigation to establish the root cause of the crash and provide a preliminary report.
Meanwhile, the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) has also extended its condolences to the families of the deceased and wished all the injured a speedy recovery.
“The health and safety of mineworkers remain a key priority for the government, as we tirelessly work towards achieving Zero Harm in South African mines. After all, it is workers who make the country’s mining sector thrive as a sunrise industry,” said the DMRE.
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