Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Chief Editor
Published on 2024-04-02 12:03:27
A tragic accident involving a bus carrying worshippers from Botswana to South Africa for Easter festivities has left at least 45 people dead. The bus, carrying a total of thirty-one female and fifteen male passengers from Botswana, veered off a bridge in northern South Africa, tumbling 50 meters (164 feet) into a ravine and bursting into flames upon impact with the rocky ground below. The only survivor of this devastating crash is an eight-year-old girl who sustained serious injuries and is currently receiving medical treatment.
The incident occurred near the town of Mokopane, approximately 200 kilometers (125 miles) north of Pretoria, sparking grief and mourning in communities affected by the tragedy. President Hakainde Hichilema of Zambia expressed deep sorrow and solidarity, offering heartfelt condolences to President Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi of Botswana, the government, and the people of Botswana. President Hichilema, on behalf of the Republic of Zambia, conveyed sincere sympathies for the tragic loss of life in the bus accident.
The bus, displaying a Botswana license plate, was on its way to Moria in Limpopo, South Africa, for a popular Easter weekend pilgrimage associated with the Zion Christian Church. President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa reached out to President Masisi, offering support and assistance in the aftermath of the catastrophe. Meanwhile, rescue efforts are ongoing at the scene of the crash as authorities struggle to identify victims, many of whom suffered severe burns or were trapped inside the vehicle.
The cause of the accident remains under investigation, with Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga emphasizing the importance of implementing enhanced road safety measures during the Easter weekend. Minister Chikunga, who visited the site of the incident, extended deepest sympathies to the affected families and promised government assistance in repatriating the bodies and conducting a thorough inquiry into the crash. She underscored the need for responsible driving and heightened alertness on the roads, especially during the busy Easter holiday period.
South Africa’s road safety record has been a cause for concern, with Minister Chikunga pointing out the challenging nature of the road where the tragic bus accident occurred. She described it as a winding route with sharp bends and hairpin turns, unsuitable for heavy vehicles like buses or trucks. President Masisi of Botswana also offered his condolences to the families of the pilgrims and the church community they belonged to, describing the crash as heartbreaking and deeply saddening.
The entire region is reeling from the loss of life in this tragic bus accident, with authorities working diligently to provide support to the affected families and investigate the circumstances that led to the deadly crash. The outpouring of condolences and support from leaders across the region underscores the magnitude of this tragedy and the need for increased vigilance in ensuring road safety for all travelers, particularly during busy holiday seasons like Easter.
Read the original article on Lusaka Times
