Following the accident that claimed the lives of 16 people at Mhlali near Shaka's head in the early evening of yesterday, MEC for Transport, Community Safety and Liaison, Mr Willies Mchunu, today visited the survivors of the accident, and met families of the deceased who had gathered at KwaDukuza Municipal hall to mourn with them the loss of their loved ones.
The MEC was accompanied by Ilembe District Mayor, Deputy Mayor, Transport Portfolio committee chairperson, Provincial SANTACO chairperson, councillors and senior government officials, who also went to inspect the accident scene.
Initial reports indicate that the driver of the minibus taxi lost control, hit the rail guard and landed on the railway line, resulting in the crash with a train. 14 people were confirmed dead on the scene whilst five were left critically injured - one of whom died in Stanger hospital yesterday, taking the total deaths to fifteen. One more passenger passed on this morning and the remaining three remain under strict supervision in hospital.
Mchunu also visited survivors of this accident to console them through their pain. Forensic experts from the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) and the SAPS have been sent to investigate the real cause of this accident. Speaking to the bereaved families, MEC Mchunu expressed his sadness and concerns on the growing spate of accidents that continue to take people's lives on our roads.
He warned families of attorneys and agents who defraud people of their Road Accident Fund (RAF) and urged them to deal directly with RAF officials in processing their claims.
MEC Mchunu also alluded to the assistance that various government departments which includes Social Development, Transport and the Municipality, will grant to families for the burial or commemoration of their loved ones. He conveyed a message of condolences from the National Minister of Transport, Ms Dipuo Peters and the Premier of KwaZulu-Natal, Senzo Mchunu, who were deeply saddened by the loss of lives through such an accident.
"What happened yesterday is a sad and devastating event, where we lost 16 lives in one horrific accident. It is unfortunate that families had to lose breadwinners through such a horrific manner. The images of this accident paint a painful picture. A team of social workers will be visiting the survivors to make sure they receive necessary counselling. Motorists should be aware that rules of the road are put there for a reason and if they are not adhered to such horrific results as seen in this accident are bound to prevail," said Mchunu.
Mchunu reiterated government's message of condolences and wished the injured a speedy recovery.
Enquiries:
Kwanele Ncalane
Cell: 072 803 1462 or 079 699 5755
Email: Kwanele.Ncalane@kzntransport.gov.za
Nathi Sukazi
Cell: 081 018 0518
Email: Nathi.Sukazi@kzntransport.gov.za
