Metrorail train 1851 travelling from Tembisa to Kaalfontein collided head on with Train 1848 between Kaalfontein and Tembisa stations today at 12H50.
The preliminary finding is that human error led to the accident. One train passed the signal at danger. A board of enquiry will be instituted to determine the root cause of the accident and Prasa will be working closely with the Railway Safety Regulator (RSR). A case of culpable homicide has been opened at Tembisa Police Station by SAPS. Out of the 243 people injured, only one adult male in his 20's sustained fatal injuries. All the injured commuters have been admitted at different hospitals in Ekurhuleni such as Tembisa, Far East Rand, OR Tambo Memorial, Germiston, Edenvale and Arwyp Medical Centre to receive urgent medical treatment.
"The accident is regrettable and we count the life of our commuter as invaluable and send heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased. Metrorail and Prasa management offers its sympathy and speedy recovery to the injured commuters and their families" said Mosenngwa Mofi, Chief Executive Officer Prasa Rail.
Safety of all commuters and employees is taken very seriously and remains our number one priority. A single line working method has been Introduced, trains are now running to and from Leralla.
The cost of the accident is still unknown at this stage. Management would like to thank the Ekurhuleni Emergency Services, Police, Medical Teams, employees and commuters for their support and understanding during this difficult time.
Metrorail technical teams will be working around the clock to recover the site.
Metrorail sincerely apologises for the inconvenience caused.
Media enquiries:
Tony Games
Cell: 083 268 7129
Email: tgames@prasa.com
