Bloody start to December: Eight killed in separate Mpumalanga crashes
Five passengers lost their lives on R33 Road between eMkhondo and Amsterdam on Monday afternoon
Image: GCIS Mpumalanga Provincial Office
Eight people have been killed in two separate road crashes involving public transport in Mpumalanga.
In the first crash, a driver allegedly lost control of the bus he was driving along the R33 between Mkhondo and Amsterdam.
MEC for Mpumalanga Department of Public Works, Roads and Transport, Thulasizwe Thomo, said the bus overturned and five passengers died at the scene.
"Six more people were seriously injured while 20 more were treated for milder injuries," he said.
The Mpumalanga Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison explained that the bus was enroute to Johannesburg.
Mpumalanga MEC for Community Safety Security and Liaison, Jackie Macie, appealed to drivers to adjust their driving in line with the prevailing conditions on the road, and this includes the wet weather.
In the second crash, three people were killed when a minibus taxi and truck collided on the R38 between Badplaas and Barberton route.
Two passengers and the minibus taxi driver died at the scene. The truck driver was not injured.
"It is saddening to receive sad news that eight people perished in two separate public transport crashes, especially as we enter the busy festive season period.
"Our heartfelt condolence goes to the families, friends, and loved ones who lost their lives. We wish all those who are injured a speedy recovery," Thomo said.
He further cautioned all road users to remain vigilant during the busy festive season while navigating through wet conditions.
"As we experience rainy conditions, public transport operators must ensure that their vehicles are roadworthy. Do not speed, only overtake when it is safe to do so, and exercise patience when driving during this busy festive season," Thomo said.
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