NEW: Makuku bus driver blamed as 9 die, 26 injured in Chiredzi bus-train collision

Masvingo Bureau

NINE people died while 26 others were injured after a bus collided with a train at the Mutirikwi railway level crossing in Triangle this morning.

Preliminary indications show that the driver of the Makuku bus failed to stop at a level crossing, resulting in a collision.

The train, which reportedly carries sugarcane, was travelling from Triangle to NRZ Lundi siding when the crash occurred.

Bodies of the deceased and the injured were taken to Collin Saunders and Chiredzi District hospitals in Chiredzi.

Chiredzi district Civil Protection Committee and District Development Coordinator Mr Lovemore Chisema confirmed the crash.

“The bodies of all the deceased and the injured have been evacuated, “he said.

Rescuers from Triangle Fire Brigade and police, together with members of the public, helped some of the passengers who were trapped in the bus.

Masvingo police said they are still investigating to establish the cause of the accident.

In a statement, NRZ public affairs and stakeholder relations manager Mr Andrew Kunambura blamed the Makuku bus driver for the deadly crash.

“The accident occurred when the driver of the bus failed to observe level crossing rules, which require drivers to stop and check for oncoming trains before proceeding. Unfortunately, nine passengers in the bus died on the spot,” he said.

“They include seven adults and two minors. Twenty-five passengers from the bus were taken to hospital where they are receiving treatment.”

NRZ extended condolences to families of the deceased.