Pretoria – President Jacob Zuma has sent his condolences to the families of the victims of the Moloto Road crash in Mpumalanga.
Twenty-nine people were killed and 30 were injured when a collision involving two trucks, a bakkie and a bus occurred on Moloto Road, near Kwaggafontein, last night.
"This carnage must stop. It is completely unacceptable! The fact that this particular road has gained notoriety in the deaths of our people means there's something wrong that we need to address together.
“We urge witnesses to assist in the investigation into the cause of the collision, which has been announced by the Minister of Transport. We also urge the law enforcement authorities to swiftly get to the bottom of the causes of this tragedy and the law must be firm on those found to have flouted any rules and regulations of the road, leading to such high fatalities," said President Zuma.
He wished the injured a speedy recovery. "On behalf of government and all South Africans, we send our heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in this accident. May their souls rest in peace."
Acting Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) CEO Phumla Williams echoed the President’s words.
“Government is saddened by the unfortunate loss of lives in this tragic incident. Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families. We wish all the injured a speedy recovery.”
She said the issue of safety on the roads was a collective effort, which included government, law enforcement agencies, drivers and society at large.
Mpumalanga Premier David Mabuza has also sent his condolences to the bereaved families.
“We are shocked by such a huge number of deaths and on behalf of the provincial government and the people of Mpumalanga, I offer our deepest and most sincere condolences to the bereaved families and their next of kin.
“The loss of one life is a loss to many. Unfortunately, accidents result in injury and deaths. We therefore also urge our law enforcement agencies to assist us in reducing these fatalities on our roads in order for government to concentrate on delivering the services,” said Mabuza.
During the month of October, the Road Traffic Management Company began implementing the Intelligent Traffic Enforcement Management programme, which will see more stringent enforcement of the rules of the road, including arrests and the impounding of vehicles.
Government also called on all motorists to change negligent behaviour and to partner with government to reduce the number of road deaths by half by the year 2020.
“Courtesy, patience and abiding by the rules of the road will play a significant role in reducing road accidents,” said Williams. – SAnews.gov.za
