MIDDELBURG – The driver’s sobriety is under scrutiny following the tragic collision between a bus and a train that resulted in the loss of six learners. The incident occurred on Wednesday, July 31, at Sekhululiwe Village in Middelburg, where six students from Moerelig Combined School in Wonderfontein lost their lives. The entire community of Middelburg was deeply shaken by this devastating event.
It is evident that the catastrophic accident was a result of reckless behaviour. However, the factors that led to such extreme recklessness, resulting in the tragic loss of innocent lives, remain unclear. Speculation suggests that the bus driver may have attempted to cross the railway tracks despite the approaching train.
Community member Themba Mahlangu expressed bewilderment, questioning how the driver could have overlooked the unmistakable presence of the loud and massive train. “No one in a sound state of mind would dare to challenge a moving train at such close proximity,” Mahlangu emphasised. “It appears highly probable that the driver was under the influence of substances.”
A Grade 11 student from Moerelig, who also used the scholar transport, stressed the importance of ensuring that bus operators remain sober while transporting learners, as their lives are entrusted to them. Additionally, another Grade 11 student, part of the learners’ representative team, raised concerns about the poor condition of some school buses, which had been previously reported but not adequately addressed.
The driver, whose identity is being withheld pending court proceedings, is reportedly hospitalised under police supervision and may face charges of culpable homicide. Over 15 learners and the driver sustained various injuries, ranging from minor to serious, with two in critical condition. The scholar bus was transporting 30 pupils.
Deputy Minister of Transport Mkhuleko Hlengwa, who visited the school and the crash site, dismissed speculations regarding the driver’s intoxication during the accident.
“We are not in a position to make judgments about his mental state. The South African Police Service (SAPS) is responsible for such matters,” Hlengwa affirmed. “The preliminary investigation findings will determine the appropriate course of action. If the driver is currently a suspect, it is the duty of the SAPS to proceed accordingly. It is imperative that we do not assume multiple roles in this situation.” Mpumalanga Community Safety, Security, and Liaison MEC Jackie Macie expressed shock over the accident, which he deemed as reckless driving. It is alleged that the bus crossed the railway line while the train was too close, resulting in the crash. The MEC conveyed his condolences to the affected families and wished a speedy recovery to those injured. He further called for a thorough investigation into the crash and stated that the law must take its course to punish those found responsible.
“We cannot lose such young and innocent lives due to recklessness. People need to take accountability for their negligence,” he said.
“Scholar transport and public transport owners must screen drivers before hiring them to know if they are really fit to be trusted with transporting people. They must also regularly educate them, test, and train them to avoid these kinds of incidents,” he added.
