Tragedy struck in South Africa on Wednesday when a train collided with a school bus, resulting in the deaths of six children and injuries to 19 others. The accident took place near Mafube, close to Middelburg, about 180 kilometers northeast of Johannesburg.
The collision occurred when the bus, carrying around 30 students, crossed a railway track as the train approached. The provincial transport department confirmed that the death toll rose to six after a student passed away while being treated at a local hospital.
Authorities emphasized the need for accountability, stating, “We cannot afford to lose young lives due to negligence. Recklessness must be addressed.”
Both the bus driver and the train driver are receiving medical care in the hospital. Despite South Africa’s advanced road infrastructure, the country struggles with poor road safety, often due to reckless driving and unroadworthy vehicles. Many families rely on privately owned minibus taxis for transportation, including getting their children to school.
