MIDDELBURG – Eleven (11) buses used for transporting learners at Moerelig Combined School have been withdrawn from service following an unannounced visit by MEC of Public Works, Roads, and Transport, Thulasizwe Thomo.
On Friday, August 23, 2024, MEC Thomo conducted a surprise inspection at the school to monitor scholar transport during the early hours of the day in Wonderfontein, near Middelburg. The visit was prompted by safety concerns raised by the public after the tragic incident on July 31, 2024, where six learners lost their lives in a collision between a school bus and a train at a level crossing near Sekhululiwe Village.
During the inspection, seven (7) buses were confiscated, and four (4) were permanently decommissioned for failing to adhere to road regulations. The department stated that this visit is part of an ongoing law enforcement initiative in the province aimed at cracking down on public transport operators who do not possess valid operating licenses and use vehicles that are not roadworthy.
Furthermore, the department highlighted that out of the 74 public transport vehicles inspected, 30 were issued summonses for non-compliance with the National Land Transport Act (NLTTA) in the vicinity of Middelburg and Wonderfontein. Twenty-six (26) vehicles were impounded, and four (4) were permanently decommissioned. Summonses were issued for 18 vehicles lacking permits, seven for unroadworthy vehicles, and one for overloading.
Minister Thomo emphasized his department’s commitment to a zero-tolerance approach towards lawlessness on the roads, particularly concerning public transport and scholar transport within the province.
“We will continue to take resolute action against operators who disregard regulations, thereby endangering the lives of learners and other road users,” Thomo said.
