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This is what was left after the crash on Monday night.
Claudine Senekal, Ladysmith Herald (Witness)
- Transport Minister Fikile Mbalula says the taxi accident in which 14 people died will be investigated.
- He said the taxi appeared to have been trapped between two trucks before the accident.
- One of the trucks collided in front of the taxi, he said.
The taxi carrying 14 people who died in KwaZulu-Natal on Monday night had jammed between two trucks, Transport Minister Fikile Mbalula said Tuesday.
“Preliminary reports indicate that the minibus taxi was traveling between two trucks and got stuck between the trucks after the truck in front of the taxi stabbed it,” he said.
Mbalula appreciated the quick response of the KwaZulu-Natal government after the fatal accident that took place on the N3 highway in Escourt.
“KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport, Community Safety and Liaison Bheki Ntuli has called an urgent meeting with the freight industry to discuss the collision, which claimed the lives of 14 people.”
READ | Collision between two trucks and a minibus near Estcourt claims 14 lives
He said the 14 deaths, which include the taxi driver, were all from the minibus. One survivor was taken to hospital in critical condition.
“Both truckers survived the accident.”
Mbalula also welcomed the prompt initiation of investigations by the Road Traffic Management Corporation and the South African Police Service.
“It is important that we get to the bottom of the factors that contributed to this tragic loss of life. Not only to end those who have lost loved ones, but also as a way to prevent a similar carnage in the future.” ,” he said.
He said investigations into the cause of the accident would focus on the roadworthiness of all vehicles involved, weather conditions at the time of the accident and other causal factors.
Mbalula called for “extreme caution on the roads as South Africa approaches the holiday season.”
“We urge all road users to remain vigilant, rest often during long-distance trips, maintain a safe following distance in inclement weather, refrain from driving under the influence of alcohol, and adhere to the speed limit.”
He sent his condolences to the friends and family of the deceased and wished the injured a full recovery.
