Beitbridge – A horrific head-on collision between an Urban Connect bus and a commercial truck has claimed the lives of 24 people near the Lutumba tollgate along the Beitbridge-Masvingo highway. The accident, which occurred at approximately 7am this morning, has left a trail of devastation and grief, prompting a swift response from local authorities and emergency services.
Beitbridge District Medical Officer Dr Lenos Samhere confirmed the tragic toll, stating that 17 people died at the scene of the accident, while seven others succumbed to their injuries, primarily head injuries, upon admission to Beitbridge District Hospital. Over 30 people have been admitted to the hospital, with 12 reported to be in critical condition.
Eyewitnesses at the scene described the harrowing moments following the collision. The Urban Connect bus, bound for Beitbridge and reportedly speeding, was attempting to overtake another vehicle as it approached the Lutumba tollgate. It was then that the bus careered into a haulage truck carrying 34 tonnes of magnesium, which had just pulled out of the tollgate.
The impact was devastating, with both vehicles suffering extensive damage. The local civil protection committee members, the police, and the army are currently on the ground, working to retrieve the human remains from the wreckage.
“We are still busy on the ground. We’ll have a better picture of the exact figures at a later stage,” said Dr Samhere, highlighting the ongoing efforts to manage the aftermath of the tragedy.
The accident occurred just 21 km north of the border town, causing panic-stricken Beitbridge residents to throng the district hospital, desperately seeking information about their loved ones.
“I rushed here to verify if any of my relatives were injured or could have died,” said a woman who preferred to be called Mai Tanaka, reflecting the widespread anxiety and concern within the community.
Initial reports suggest that the bus was travelling to Beitbridge, while the truck was heading to Chirundu. The exact cause of the accident is still under investigation, with preliminary indications suggesting that the bus driver may have made an overtaking error.
Police and traffic officials have cordoned off the area while conducting a thorough investigation. Authorities are urging drivers to exercise extreme caution on the Beitbridge-Masvingo highway, particularly around the Lutumba area, which is known for its high traffic volume and frequent accidents.
The Beitbridge-Masvingo highway is a critical transport artery, connecting Zimbabwe with South Africa and other regional markets. However, it is also notorious for its high accident rate, often attributed to speeding, reckless driving, and the poor condition of some vehicles.
This latest tragedy underscores the urgent need for improved road safety measures, including stricter enforcement of traffic laws, enhanced driver education, and investment in road infrastructure.
The Civil Protection Committee is working closely with the police and the army to provide support to the victims and their families. Counselling services are being offered to those affected by the tragedy, and efforts are underway to identify the deceased and inform their next of kin.
The accident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of responsible driving and the devastating consequences of road traffic accidents. As investigations continue, authorities are appealing to the public to come forward with any information that may assist in determining the exact cause of the collision.
The nation mourns the loss of 24 lives, and thoughts and prayers are with the injured and the families of the deceased during this difficult time. The Beitbridge-Masvingo highway remains a hazardous stretch of road, and this tragedy serves as a call to action to improve road safety and prevent future loss of life.
