South African President Pays Tribute to Bus Crash Victims as Fatalities Reach 16
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Synopsis
In a heartfelt response to the tragic bus crash in Gauteng that claimed 16 lives, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed condolences to the victims' families and emphasized the importance of road safety. The incident highlights the need for improved driver responsibility and awareness of road safety measures.
Key Takeaways
- Cyril Ramaphosa expresses condolences post-bus crash.
- 16 fatalities confirmed in Gauteng accident.
- Need for improved road safety awareness.
- Human error is a key factor in road accidents.
- Minister of Transport calls for bus operator discussions.
Johannesburg, March 12 (NationPress) South African President Cyril Ramaphosa conveyed his heartfelt sympathies to the families grieving after a devastating bus accident in the northeastern province of Gauteng resulted in 16 fatalities.
The incident transpired at approximately 6:45 a.m. local time (0445 GMT) on Tuesday when a bus overturned on a highway in Ekurhuleni City, close to Johannesburg's OR Tambo International Airport.
The number of deceased has risen to 16 following the confirmation of 12 individuals pronounced dead at the scene, with 45 others being taken to medical facilities for treatment.
In a statement from the South African Presidency, Ramaphosa expressed being “deeply saddened” by the reported loss of life.
“While the cause of the recent incident is still under investigation, we are reminded that tragedies such as these leave more than physical scars, as they cause trauma that affects family relationships and the lives of survivors,” stated Ramaphosa.
The President also highlighted the importance of road safety and called on drivers to exercise caution.
“We must reflect on the responsibility and conduct of everyone who gets behind the wheel of a vehicle in our country. The biggest factor in crashes is human error, and drivers must ensure vehicles are roadworthy and obey the rules of the road,” he remarked.
Recently, South Africa has experienced a surge in road accidents. On March 5, a bus transporting 35 passengers collided with a truck in the central province of Free State, resulting in 10 fatalities.
On March 9, a road incident in the eastern province of KwaZulu-Natal claimed the lives of at least nine passengers, as reported by the Xinhua news agency.
Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy indicated that the majority of road accidents in South Africa are attributed to human error, including speeding, overtaking in prohibited zones, and driving under the influence.
Creecy has requested the Road Traffic Management Corporation to convene with all bus operators soon to discuss enhancing passenger safety.
