Several Killed, Dozens Injured In Malawian Bus Crash On N1 In Limpopo

Several people have died and dozens more were injured after a Malawian bus crashed on the N1 near the Witvlag turn-off in Limpopo on Thursday evening.

According to the Limpopo Department of Transport and Community Safety, the bus was travelling towards Gauteng at the time of the accident.

Authorities said at least 22 passengers sustained serious injuries, 17 suffered moderate injuries and five sustained minor injuries.

The department confirmed fatalities in the crash but said the exact number of deaths had not yet been verified.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the accident may have been caused by mechanical failure.

Survivor Claims Malawian Bus Experienced Brake Failure

A survivor told authorities that the bus allegedly experienced brake problems before the crash.

“We left Malawi on Tuesday morning, and then we arrived at the border of Mozambique at night. We slept there by the border. Then on Wednesday morning, we set off. We arrived at Beitbridge at around 12 today [Thursday]. Then the accident happened around 6pm,” the survivor said.

“So, they were coming from the Musina side. First of all, when we were just before the first tunnel, the brakes failed. The driver came out and tried to fix it. He managed to fix it. Then, after we jumped the second tunnel, it failed again.

“But I think, I don’t know, he was scared. It was too dark. He didn’t manage to stop. I think he wanted to stop at Richard, that side of Richard. So, when we reached here, it was too dark. He didn’t manage to stop. Then we had an accident.”

The department said a truck remained stuck near the scene while traffic officials continued directing vehicles in the area.

Authorities also announced that the road would be temporarily closed again at 10am to allow for the recovery of the trailer and for the South African Police Service Dog Unit to continue searching for possible human remains.

Motorists Urged To Use Alternative Routes

Motorists travelling between Musina and Makhado have been advised to use alternative routes.

Drivers travelling from Musina towards Makhado are advised to turn left at Williespoort onto the R523, continue through Siloam and reconnect with the N1 at Witvlag.

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Those travelling from Makhado towards Musina should turn right at Witvlag onto the R523 and proceed through Siloam and Nzhelele before rejoining the N1 near Williespoort.

The department urged motorists to reduce speed, expect delays and exercise caution, especially at night or during misty conditions.

The Limpopo Department of Transport and Community Safety has previously raised concerns over cross-border bus crashes in the province.