Image Source: The Witness
Local – Sixteen people lost their lives, and dozens more were injured in a devastating bus accident on the R21 near OR Tambo International Airport. The crash, which happened early on Tuesday, 11 March 2025, involved a City of Ekurhuleni passenger bus and a light motor vehicle.
According to the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), the bus was on its usual route from Katlehong to Pomona when disaster struck.
RTMC spokesperson Simon Zwane explained that both vehicles were in the third lane from the right when the LMV suddenly braked after missing an off-ramp exit.
“In an attempt to avoid a collision, the bus driver also braked and swerved, resulting in the bus losing control, rotating clockwise, overturning, and coming to a rest in the off-ramp lane, facing south,” Zwane said.
Emergency responders rushed the injured to OR Tambo, Tembisa, and Edenvale hospitals. Investigations into the cause of the crash are ongoing.
City’s Response
The City of Ekurhuleni expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy. MMC for Roads and Transport Planning, Cllr Andile Mngwevu, visited the scene and described the loss as heartbreaking.
“We are at a loss for words. This is a devastating tragedy. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the families of the deceased, and our prayers are with those who are recovering in various hospitals around the area,” Mngwevu said.
He dismissed claims that the bus was overloaded and assured the public that authorities would conduct a full investigation.
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President Ramaphosa Speaks on Road Safety
President Cyril Ramaphosa extended his condolences to the grieving families and wished the survivors a speedy recovery. He also acknowledged another tragic bus crash in KwaZulu-Natal over the weekend, where nine people lost their lives and 39 others were injured.
Reflecting on road safety, he said, “While the causes of these recent incidents are still under investigation, we are reminded that tragedies such as these leave more than physical scars, as they cause trauma that affects family relationships and the lives of survivors.”
Ramaphosa also called for responsible driving, emphasising, “The biggest factor in crashes is human error, not law enforcement or road conditions. Drivers must ensure vehicles are roadworthy and must obey the rules of the road. They are there to keep us safe.”
