Department to investigate causes of fatal bus fire
The Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport will appoint an independent investigator, supported by fire experts, to determine the cause of the bus fire that claimed the lives of six people and injured several others.
This was revealed by the Gauteng MEC for Public Transport and Roads Infrastructure Jacob Mamabolo on his visit to survivors at the Steve Biko Academic Hospital on Sunday, 23 May 2021.
MEC Mamabolo also welcomed the investigations by PUTCO and law-enforcement agencies into the causes of the fire.
He indicated that “the Department was deeply concerned and worried by what has happened”.
He added that facts and information will be shared with all families to be able to get all answers they require to find permanent closure.
“We also send our deep, heartfelt condolences to families and loved ones of those who lost their lives in this tragic incident. We wish the injured a speedy recovery,” said the MEC.
He further indicated that the cause of the fire is not known at this stage and that the Department would not enter the realm of speculation.
The Department would wait for the results of the investigations to determine the next course of action.
The Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport manages 34 bus subsidy contracts (26 tendered and 8 interim contracts) awarded to 13 bus operators.
These are funded through the Public Transport Operations Grant (PTOG). Two other ceded contracts from North-West Province are funded by the Gauteng Province.
The contracts are operated in the metros, namely Cities of Johannesburg, Tshwane and Ekurhuleni as well as Sedibeng District Municipality.
The subsidised services are operated by bus companies on behalf of government through a system of interim or tendered contracts.
Enquiries:
Melitah Madiba
Cell: 073 644 9935
Theo Nkonki
Cell: 082 719 6404
E-mail: PressOffice.gpdrt@gauteng.gov.za
