Three people lost their lives and 55 others were injured in a devastating accident on the R36 road near the Strijdom Tunnel outside Leboeng, near Burgersfort in Limpopo. The tragic incident occurred when a truck transporting workers lost control while descending a mountain pass and overturned, plunging into a ditch.
According to Limpopo traffic spokesperson Tidimalo Chuene, the driver of the truck struggled to control the vehicle on the steep mountain road. The truck, heavily loaded with passengers, veered off the road and overturned, causing chaos and severe injuries among those on board. The vehicle eventually landed in a ditch, making rescue efforts even more challenging.
Emergency services quickly arrived at the scene to assist the victims. Initial reports confirmed that three people died on impact due to the severity of the crash. Among the 55 injured, 20 passengers, including the driver, sustained serious injuries. These individuals required immediate medical attention and were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment. The remaining 35 passengers suffered minor injuries and were also transported to various healthcare facilities to receive necessary care.
The incident has once again raised concerns about road safety and the condition of vehicles used to transport workers, especially in mountainous regions like Limpopo. The R36 road, known for its winding turns and steep slopes, can be particularly dangerous for heavy vehicles such as trucks. Authorities are now investigating the exact cause of the accident, with preliminary suspicions pointing toward brake failure or mechanical issues as potential factors.
Tidimalo Chuene emphasized the importance of regular vehicle maintenance, particularly for trucks and buses transporting large groups of people. “It is crucial that operators ensure their vehicles are roadworthy, especially when travelling through high-risk areas like mountain passes. The loss of lives could have been prevented with better precautions,” she stated.
Road safety advocates have also highlighted the need for stricter regulations on the transportation of workers in trucks, arguing that such vehicles are often not designed to safely carry passengers. The practice of loading workers onto open or closed trucks remains common in some parts of South Africa, despite the associated risks.
Local authorities have promised a thorough investigation into the incident. They will be reviewing the driver’s qualifications, the truck’s mechanical condition, and whether the vehicle was overloaded at the time of the crash. The outcome of the investigation is expected to provide clarity on what led to the accident and help prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Meanwhile, the families of the deceased are mourning their loss, while those injured are receiving medical care. The Limpopo Department of Transport has extended condolences to the affected families and assured the public that they are taking the matter seriously.
This tragic accident serves as a grim reminder of the importance of road safety, proper vehicle maintenance, and the need for safe transportation methods for workers across the country.
Authorities continue to urge all road users, especially heavy vehicle drivers, to exercise extreme caution while navigating challenging routes like the R36.