A bus transporting Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) supporters from Gauteng to Ulundi for the party’s 50th anniversary celebrations overturned on the R34 near Vryheid early Sunday morning, resulting in multiple injuries.
Incident Details:
- Time and Location: The accident occurred between 6:00 and 6:30 AM on the R34 route near Vryheid.
- Casualties: At least 22 IFP members sustained injuries. Initial reports indicate that four individuals were hospitalized, while others received medical attention on-site.
- Injuries: Three patients were critically injured after being trapped under the bus. Eight others sustained serious injuries, and eleven had minor injuries.
Emergency Response:
Paramedics, Fire and Rescue Services, and JBS Towing collaborated to safely lift the bus and extricate the trapped passengers. All injured individuals were transported to various hospitals for further treatment.
Official Statements:
- IFP Response: IFP spokesperson Mkhuleko Hlengwa confirmed the incident, stating that four individuals were hospitalized and others received on-site medical attention. No fatalities have been reported.
- Transport Authorities: KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, Siboniso Duma, indicated that preliminary reports suggest the bus driver was speeding. He emphasized a zero-tolerance approach to such behavior, stating, “We will have no mercy on him.”
Event Impact:
The IFP’s 50th anniversary celebration in Ulundi is a significant milestone for the party. Despite the accident, the event proceeded, with over 30,000 supporters expected to attend. Party leaders, including President Velenkosini Hlabisa and KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli, were scheduled to address attendees.
Safety Concerns:
This incident underscores ongoing concerns about road safety in KwaZulu-Natal, particularly regarding driver behavior and vehicle maintenance. Authorities are urged to enforce stricter regulations to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Investigation:
An investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of the accident. Further details will be provided as they become available.
Pondoland Times will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more information emerges.
