Three killed in crash on R71
UPDATE: The R71 south bound lanes are open. The lanes were closed following a fatal incident earlier.
![](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2021/03/162688078_3687445864637191_7900847422381766015_o-780x470.jpg)
LIMPOPO – According to a statement by the Transport Department’s Media Liaison Officer, Mike Maringa, three people have thus far been confirmed dead.
“The accident occurred on the R71 near Paledi Mall in Mankweng. Three others were rushed to the nearest hospital,” he explained.
![](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2021/03/WhatsApp-Image-2021-03-19-at-18.07.55-300x400.jpeg)
Maringa advised motorists to approach with caution and reduce speed.
“The accident involves a truck and a sports utility vehicle,” Maringa added.
Meanwhile, in a separate incident, a pedestrian was killed when he was trying to cross the road on the R71 near the Nobody traffic circle just outside Mankweng.
Maringa said as a result of these two incidents, there is a heavy traffic congestion on the R71 between Mamahule and Paledi.
Earlier today, Maringa told Review that they are prepared for an influx of motorists over the long weekend.
He said they have increased traffic official visibility, with a focus on the N1 between Gauteng and Polokwane.
“Most motorists use this road to travel to areas such as Phalaborwa, Malamulele and Giyani. We are not only increasing visibility on the N1, but also on our other provincial, district and municipal roads. We expect those who make use of these roads, to comply and our municipal officials are expected to do their part,” Maringa explained.
Read more: Drive responsibly this long weekend, warns Limpopo Traffic Department
![](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/68/2021/01/NEWEST-FOLLOW.png)