Harare – A horrific road traffic accident on the Harare-Mutare highway yesterday afternoon where it claimed the lives of four people and left ten others injured. The accident, which occurred just after the Mabvuku turn-off, has once again highlighted the urgent need for stricter road safety measures in Zimbabwe.
The accident involved a commuter omnibus that was travelling towards Marondera. According to eyewitness accounts, the vehicle’s tyre burst, causing the driver to lose control. The bus rolled over three times before landing on its roof.
“It was a terrifying scene,” said a witness who was travelling behind the commuter omnibus. “The bus just flipped over and over. We rushed to help, but it was too late for some.”
The four people who died in the accident were pronounced dead at the scene. The injured were rushed to Parirenyatwa hospital for treatment.
The accident comes amidst growing concerns about the alarming rise in road accidents across the country. In a recent Senate session, Manicaland Senator Jane Chitsamba expressed deep concern over the surge in road carnage, questioning the Transport and Infrastructure Development Ministry about its response to this pressing issue.
“It is heartbreaking to see so many lives lost on our roads,” Senator Chitsamba said. “We need to understand what is driving this increase in accidents and take decisive action to prevent further tragedies.”
In response, Transport and Infrastructure Development Minister Felix Mhona acknowledged the gravity of the situation and outlined the government’s plan to address the issue.
“It is quite saddening that over 26 precious lives were lost in June alone, with over 56 people injured,” Minister Mhona said. “We are taking serious measures in terms of mitigatory actions as a Ministry, but this calls for a holistic approach.”
He went on to highlight the government’s commitment to holding accountable those who fail to uphold road safety standards.
“Where we have witnessed recklessness, where we did not preserve the sanctity of life on our roads, where others are driving under the influence of alcohol, and through the enforcement agents, we have said if a vehicle passes through a manned checkpoint and is involved in an accident, the officials are accountable,” Minister Mhona stated.
The government’s commitment to a tougher stance on road safety is a welcome development. However, it is crucial that these measures are implemented effectively and consistently to ensure that they have a real impact on reducing road accidents.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police is currently investigating the accident to determine the exact cause and hold those responsible accountable.
