A school bus driver involved in a fatal collision with a train in Middelburg, South Africa, has allegedly been accused of substance abuse and recklessness.
The crash, which occurred on Thursday, resulted in the deaths of five pupils. According to police, the bus failed to stop at a level crossing, leading to the tragedy.
A learner who usually takes the bus, but didn’t on the day of the accident, told SABC: “The driver allegedly had a problem of always using drugs while driving. We were always complaining about him, and we allegedly overload on the bus every day.”
The bus driver is currently receiving treatment in hospital. Those on the train did not sustain any injuries.
At the crash site, devastated parents collected their children’s belongings, with some allegedly pointing fingers at the driver.
Mpumalanga Transport MEC Thulasizwe Thomo said: “We are told the driver was allegedly under the influence and reckless. We are going to take drastic measures in response to these incidents, especially regarding scholar transport.”
The Basic Education Minister has pledged support for affected families, with learning suspended until Monday.
Health officials have visited injured pupils in hospital, while counselling services have been made available to families and schoolmates of the victims.
The Department of Public Works, Roads and Transport has called an urgent meeting to address public transport safety concerns in the province.
This incident has reignited debates about road safety and scholar transport regulations in South Africa.
