At least 21 people have lost their lives following a serious multi-vehicle collision on the N1 in the Klein Karoo. The crash, which involved two minibus taxis and a car, occurred on Sunday night on the stretch of road between Prince Albert and Leeu-Gamka in the Western Cape.
Three other people sustained serious injuries in the collision and were attended to by emergency services at the scene. Authorities have not yet released further details about the identities of those who died or the circumstances surrounding the crash.
The devastating collision has resulted in the complete closure of the N1 in both directions as emergency and traffic officials continue working at the scene. Motorists travelling through the area have been warned to avoid the affected section of the highway where possible.
Western Cape Mobility Department spokesperson Muneera Allie confirmed the death toll and urged road users to exercise extreme caution while travelling in the area.
Emergency teams, traffic officials and other response personnel remain on the scene as they deal with the aftermath of the crash. Their work includes assisting injured victims, managing the accident scene and dealing with the disruption caused by the closure of the major route.
Motorists who need to travel through the area have been advised to use an alternative route. According to authorities, the available diversion runs via Prince Albert Road Station and then along the R407 towards the N12. From there, motorists can continue along the N12 in the direction of Beaufort West.
The alternative route adds a significant distance to the journey, with motorists expected to travel approximately 200 kilometres. Drivers have therefore been warned to plan accordingly and allow extra time for their journeys.
Traffic authorities have also cautioned motorists to follow instructions from officials and emergency personnel stationed along the affected routes. Road users are encouraged not to attempt to pass through the crash area while emergency operations are still underway.
The incident once again highlights the dangers faced by motorists and passengers travelling on South Africa’s major highways, particularly when multiple vehicles are involved in a collision.
The cause of the crash has not yet been confirmed, and investigations are expected to establish exactly what led to the collision. Authorities are likely to examine the circumstances surrounding the vehicles involved as part of the investigation.
Families and communities are now facing the difficult task of coming to terms with the loss of their loved ones, while those injured in the collision are receiving medical attention.
With the N1 remaining closed in both directions, motorists are urged to avoid the area if possible, exercise patience and remain alert when using alternative routes.
Further information about the victims, the condition of the injured and the circumstances leading to the collision is expected as authorities continue their investigation.
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