Transport Minister Urges Motorists, Pedestrians To Exercise Caution Following Mpumalanga Crash

Transport minister, Sindisiwe Chikunga, has urged all motorists and pedestrians to exercise heightened vigilance as the festive season is around the corner.

Chikunga's statement came after a major road accident in Mpumalanga province on Friday killed seven people and injured more than 50.

A bus had overturned on the R37 route between Lydenburg and Sabie, allegedly after a tire burst and the driver lost his control.

"Road safety remains the responsibility of every individual. Let us heed the call and follow all the rules of the road without exception in order for us to save lives," SA News reported on Sunday, quoting Chikunga.

"Roads are a public space that should be used and shared responsibly with due consideration for all the other users," Chikunga added.

"Our thoughts and our prayers are with all the families during this difficult time of sorrow. Your pain is our pain and your loss is our loss," Chikunga said, while addressing the victims. "We wish you all the strength as we come to terms with this tragic experience."

"We also wish a speedy return to good health to all the individuals who sustained injuries during the crash."

The transport department revealed that crash reconstruction and investigation teams alongside law enforcement officers from the Road Traffic Management Corporation and the South African Police Service will investigate the accident and submit a report.

Meanwhile, Chikunga launched the 2023/24 Festive Season Road Safety Campaign Nov. 26 at Tsakane Stadium in the East Rand. Traffic volumes are anticipated to increase during the festive season, as travelers make their journeys to and from various destinations.

The transport department has urged people to avoid driving under the influence of alcohol, stay under the speed limit, avoid using mobile phones while driving, fasten seatbelts, take regular breaks in long-distance driving, ensure pedestrians cross roads at marked intersections and wear bright colors while walking in dark areas.

In addition, the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa has resumed the Mainline Passenger Services from Johannesburg to Durban and Cape Town to offer an alternative mode of transportation for South Africans to meet their families and friends during the holiday season.