N2 Pongola death toll rises to 16

EMERGENCY services are still on scene at the horrific accident on the N2 near Pongola, working tirelessly to extricate the bodies of those who lost their lives when a truck ploughed into a bakkie this afternoon (Friday).

Latest reports from the Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) in Pongola state the death toll has risen to 16.

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Circumstances surrounding the collision are still unclear, but Pongola Mayor Velephi Sikhosana alleges that a truck lost control and collided with a bakkie that was parked at the roadside.

The bakkie contained school pupils and two adults, who also lost their lives.

One pupil suffered critical injuries and was rushed to iTshelejuba Hospital for further medical care.

The mayor urged motorists to drive with caution at all times to avoid such carnage.

“On behalf of uPhongolo Municipality, I send our heartfelt condolences to the families of the pupils who lost their lives in the accident.

“We hope the affected families will find comfort, hope and courage during this time of painful loss, and we wish the injured child a speedy recovery,” she said.

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KZN Transport, Community Safety and Liaison MEC Sipho Hlomuka expressed sadness and said this accident comes as the province is preparing an intense Transport Month campaign in October.

He said the road safety drive will be characterised by visible law enforcement operations throughout KZN.

“We are deeply disturbed by this fatal accident. The death of so many young lives is a tragedy. We have sent our forensic team to investigate the cause of the accident.

“We call for responsible road using in the province to end the scourge of fatal crashes.”

The MEC is expected to visit the accident scene tomorrow (Saturday).

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