Staff Reporter.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has sent his condolences to the families affected by the tragic bus crash in Makhado, Limpopo.
A bus transporting commuters from Louis Trichardt to different villages in the Vhembe district collided with a cash-in-transit vehicle on the N1 highway on Monday, leaving at least 21 people dead.
At least 69 others were left with serious injuries and have been admitted to various nearby hospitals for medical care.
“As compatriots, we are deeply saddened when we experience such a loss of life on our roads. Incidents like this impact severely on families who lose loved ones, as well survivors or witnesses who are affected physically or psychologically when such tragedy happens.
“Incidents of this kind also have economic consequences for the people involved and for the businesses they may operate or in which they are employed. We must all do what we can to travel in safety, while we treat our roads as a shared amenity, which they are,” the President said.
Ramaphosa has cautioned motorists to practice patience on the road, alluding to the possibility that the fatal crash may have been a result of impatience.
“A second of haste or impatience can result in a lifetime of loss and pain, and there is no risk that is worth taking – no matter what your experience may be as a driver.
“While we reflect on this, our prayers go out to the families, friends and colleagues of those who have perished in Limpopo, “Ramaphosa said.
Florence Radzilani, MEC for transport and community safety in Limpopo, has been visiting the injured in the hospitals following the horrific crash. According to Radzilani, the majority of patients have been discharged while others remain in a critical condition.
“Condolences to all the affected who lost their loved ones. We also wish a speedy recovery to those who are admitted in hospitals.” she said.
The police are investigating the cause of the accident on the N1 highway in Makhado.