Pongola horror crash: Fikile Mbalula sends condolences to families

At least 21 people died, most of them children, after a truck and a bakkie transporting scholars collided on Friday afternoon in KZN

Sep 17, 2022 - 18:05
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Pongola horror crash: Fikile Mbalula sends condolences to families

Transport Minister Fikile Mbalula says he has learnt with shock, about the horrific road crash which claimed the lives of 21 people on the N2 between Pongola and Itshelejuba in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN).

“We have come to know, with great sadness, of the horrific accident which claimed the lives of multiple scholars who were on their way back from school on Friday afternoon,” he said.

A truck and a bakkie transporting children collided on Friday afternoon, 16 September 2022. Most of the victims include the children.

“We received these terrible news yesterday evening. Most of the victims are school children making this more heartbreaking. I send my condolences to the families of all the victims. Road Safety continues to be a priority of our government. Working with traffic law enforcement at all spheres of government we coordinate our plans to prevent road crashes like these. Their occurrence sends a chilling message to all South Africans to adhere to all road safety laws and corporate with law enforcement,” Mbalula said.

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MBALULA: N2 CRASH STILL BEING INVESTIGATED

The relevant authorities, including in KZN, are still investigating the cause of the fatal N2 road crash, something which Fikile Mbalula has noted.

“We will be working alongside our Road Traffic Management Corporation to investigate the causes of the accident and ensure that those liable for the incident are held responsible,” Mbalula said.

He has also wished those still recovering from the accident, a speedy recovery.

“The loss of young lives on our roads is one which is extremely saddening and the Minister wishes to reaffirm the nation that the Department of Transport, through its Road Traffic Management Corporation, will ensure that following an investigation, those held liable for the N2 collision will indeed be brought to book,” Mbalula’s office said in a statement.