At least 42 people have been killed in a horrific bus crash on the N1 north near Louis Trichardt in Limpopo early on Monday morning.
Preliminary reports indicate that the bus, which was carrying passengers from Zimbabwe and Malawi, veered off the road along a steep mountain pass and plunged down an embankment. The passengers were reportedly travelling from the Eastern Cape back to their home countries.
Emergency services, including paramedics, police, and disaster management teams, rushed to the scene and have been conducting rescue and recovery operations throughout the morning. The N1 northbound lane remains closed as authorities clear the wreckage and assist survivors.
Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba is expected to visit the crash site at 11:00 a.m. to receive a briefing from rescue officials and later address the media. She will also visit hospitals where the injured are being treated.
“This is a heartbreaking tragedy. Losing so many lives in one incident is painful beyond words,” said Ramathuba. “On behalf of the Limpopo Provincial Government, we extend our deepest condolences to the affected families, including those in Zimbabwe and Malawi. We wish a full and speedy recovery to all survivor’s.”
Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the crash.
The provincial government is working with the Departments of Transport, Health, and Community Safety, as well as Disaster Management teams, to support victims and their families. Psychosocial services have been activated, and liaison with consular officials from Zimbabwe and Malawi is under way to assist with the repatriation process.
This is a developing story.
