Booysens train collision: MEC Vadi wishes speedy recovery to the injured
Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport Dr. Ismail Vadi has wished a speedy recovery to commuters who were injured when two Metrorail trains collided at Booysens, south of Johannesburg.
Metrorail train 9708 travelling from Faraday towards New Canada is said to have collided head-on with a Naledi-Jikeleza Train 9949 at around 07h00.
The collision took place while trains were manually authorized in the section due to the signalling upgrade currently underway.
At least 112 commuters sustained minor injuries with seven (7) sustaining serious but not critical injuries. The injured are currently receiving medical attention at various hospitals. Four of the train crew members are also receiving medical assessments and will receive psychological support.
“We are deeply shocked by this accident and would take this opportunity to wish those who were injured a speedy recovery. We are calling on Passenger Rail Agency of SA (PRASA) together with the Railway Safety Regulator (RSR) to look at this matter further and undertake urgent measures to improve commuters’ safety,” MEC Vadi said.
He also thanked the emergency medical services, police and medical teams for their swift response in attending to those who needed medical attention.
Enquiries:
Ms Melitah Madiba
Cell: 073 644 9935
E-mail: PressOffice.gpdrt@gauteng.gov.za
