Update:
According to Jandre Bakker, spokesperson for the Western Cape Mobility Department, five people lost their lives and 48 were injured. The accident occurred at 12:55pm, about 1km outside Swellendam en route to Cape Town.
‘Today, a passenger bus overturned on the N2 near Swellendam after the driver allegedly lost control of the vehicle. Western Cape Provincial Traffic officials are working with the South African Police Service and local law enforcement to manage traffic control. All lanes were closed immediately with a stop-and-go to be put in place as soon as it becomes safe to do so.’
Premier Alan Winde sent his condolences to the families and loved ones of the deceased. ‘For now, we are focused on a coordinated response to give all victims the best possible care and ensure safety at the scene.’
Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr Nomafrench Mbombo says the Department of Health has the incident under control ‘The most critical patients have been airlifted to Groote Schuur, Tygerberg and George Hospitals. Referrals are being sent to Worcester Regional Hospital with our EMS vehicles. In relation to treatment, patients are being triaged accordingly on site and the green patients are being seen at the local clinic, while the rest are being treated at Swellendam Hospital.’
Mbombo adds that Eskom has exempted Swellendam Hospital from the loadshedding schedule. ‘This will greatly assist the facility in ensuring round-the-clock, lifesaving services. As Minister of Health and Wellness, I am grateful for the dedication and commitment of our healthcare professionals. We will be monitoring this situation closely and will provide updates as they are confirmed.’
Ricardo Mackenzie, Minister of Mobility, shared his condolences and added: ‘This incident is a chilling reminder to everyone that we need to be extra vigilant on our roads this long weekend. Provincial Traffic Officers are out in full force to prevent more crashes, as they are every day of the year, but we need the support of each road user. Please take care, buckle up, don’t speed, take breaks when tired, don’t use your cell phone while driving, and DON’T drink and drive!’
A passenger bus has overturned on the N2 close to Swellendam, in the direction of Cape Town.
As per Radio Overberg, the driver of the vehicle allegedly lost control. According to preliminary reports, three people have died on scene, subject to verification by forensic pathology services. Further to this, reports suggest that 50 people have sustained injuries.
More to follow.
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Picture: Twitter / @TrafficSA