Online Reporter
Thupeyo Muleya, [email protected]
Several Malawians were killed when a bus they were travelling in was involved in road accident along the N1 highway neat the Witvlag area in Limpopo province, South Africa this Thursday evening.
The bus was travelling from Gauteng to Malawi when tragedy struck.
Rescue workers are still attending to the scene and the area around has been closed to traffic.
Limpopo Department of Transport and Community Safety spokesperson Ms Mashed Ambati confirmed the latest incident in a statement.
“We inform motorists of a serious road accident involving a Malawian bus travelling from Gauteng on the N1 near the Witvlag turn-off,” she said in the statement.
“An unconfirmed number of fatalities has been reported, while the number of injured persons is still to be confirmed.
“The road is currently closed. Traffic officials, police, and emergency services are on the scene managing the situation”.
Ms Ambati urged motorists are urged to remain patient when approaching the area and are advised to consider using alternative routes.
She said further details will be announced as more information becomes available.
Witvlag is a mountainous area located in the Limpopo province of South Africa, approximately 19 km north of Louis Trichardt (Mikado) in the Soutpansberg region.
Situated along the Studholme area, it is known for its high elevation, scenic views, and agricultural production, including Macadamia nuts, avocados, and berries.
The N1 highway in South Africa is fast becoming a death trap for travellers.
It is understood that the N1 is a major commercial road linking South Africa with its northern neighbours among them Zimbabwe, Zambia, DRC, Malawi, Angola and Tanzania.
An estimated two thirds of the 15 000 people crossing through Beitbridge border post use the same highway to enter or leave South Africa.
Authorities in South Africa are also suspecting fatigue on the part of the bus drivers who drive for longer distances without getting adequate rest.
Bunjiwe Mkwananzi