Chronicle Editor
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]
AUTHORITIES have called on motorists and pedestrians to heed advice and desist from crossing flooded rivers following a spate of accidents along these waterways.
Traditional leaders have also called for stiffer penalties for motorists who put the lives of passengers at risk.
Recently, the driver of a Greenhorse bus attempted to cross Mlenje River in Gwanda District with 75 passengers on board, resulting in the death of one passenger and the disappearance of a three-month-old baby, who has still not been found.
In another incident, a tractor driver was lucky to escape after his vehicle plunged into Pelele River in Gwanda after he attempted to cross it while flooded.
Several videos have also been circulating of vehicles that have encountered unfortunate predicaments after drivers tried to cross flooded rivers.
Mr Rodger Dube from Pelele Village said there is a need for responsibility from both passengers and motorists.
“When it comes to crossing flooded rivers, everyone involved must act responsibly. Motorists need to remember they are responsible for the safety of their passengers. Some drivers attempt to beat the clock in order to ferry more passengers.
“There is also a need for passengers to be firm with motorists. Some passengers fail to be patient and encourage drivers to cross flooded rivers, which is irresponsible. Even pedestrians need to be cautious, as some people are swept away while attempting to cross flooded rivers on foot,” he said.
Pelele village head, Mr Freedom Sebatha, said it is concerning that a number of lives have been lost in flooded rivers, some of which could have been avoided. He said there is a need for a mindset shift among drivers, passengers, and community members.
Garanyemba village head, Mr Menziwe Moyo, said deterrent penalties must be put in place to govern the actions of motorists. He explained that in many cases involving public service vehicles that plunge into rivers, the drivers are often trying to meet targets.
“Public transporters are losing the essence of their service and are focusing more on meeting targets, even if it puts the lives of passengers at risk. Implementing stiffer penalties will influence decisions and set rules at the managerial level. We will see transport companies putting rules in place that encourage responsible behaviour from their drivers,” he said.
Gwanda South legislator and Deputy Minister of Information, Publicity, and Broadcasting Services, Dr Omphile Marupi, urged teachers and guardians to warn learners about the dangers of crossing flooded rivers.
“We are in the rainy season, so let’s ensure that we don’t cross flooded rivers. We also have to share this important information with our children. As teachers and guardians, we have a role to play in ensuring our children are protected. If necessary, we must accompany them,” he said.
“We have recorded several incidents over the past month where vehicles have plunged into rivers, and in some cases, lives have been lost,” he added.
@DubeMatutu
Online Reporter