21 dead, several injured after two minibus taxis collide head-on, another car rams into them in South Africa
At least 21 people were killed, and several others were injured after two minibus taxis collided head-on and a third vehicle rammed into them in South Africa.
The crash took place on Sunday night in the Western Cape Province between the small towns of Prince Albert and Leeu-Gamka. (Image for representation)The crash took place on Sunday night in the Western Cape Province between the small towns of Prince Albert and Leeu-Gamka, news agency AP reported, citing the Road Traffic Management Corporation.
The agency further said the death toll “may change as emergency services and authorities in the Western Cape continue their assessment of the scene.”
ALSO READ: 'We are falling, we will die!’ Scary video from Turkish Airlines flight after 3 failed landing attempts in storm
The crash occurred as the two minibus taxis collided head-on. It further led to an SUV crashing into them.
Three of the victims were taken to a hospital but were declared dead upon arrival.
The scene of the crash located on the N1 highway was cordoned off, while the Road Traffic Management Corporation launched an investigation into the incident.
Western Cape Mobility Department spokesperson Muneera Allie urged people to avoid the site of the accident. "The N1 is currently closed in both directions. The only available alternative route is via Prince Albert Road Station, along the R407 towards the N12, and then continuing on the N12 towards Beaufort West (approximately 200km)," she was quoted as saying by SABC news.
Allie advised extreme caution, and warned citizens to expect significant delays. She further urged the motorists to follow the instructions of traffic officials and emergency personnel on site.
Minibus taxis, which are one of the key mode of transport for million in South Africa, are prone to fatal collisions, AP reported. Earlier in January this year, at least 25 people, including 14 children, were killed in two separate crashes involving minibus taxis.
Follow the latest breaking news, major developments and agenda-setting stories from India and around the world with the newsdesk at Hindustan Times. Operating round the clock, the desk brings together experienced editors, reporters and correspondents to deliver fast, accurate and contextual reporting across subjects that influence public policy, governance, business, society and international affairs. The HT News Desk covers politics, elections, government policies, the economy, business and markets, science and technology, the environment, law and order, infrastructure, education, climate issues and geopolitics, while closely tracking developments across states, institutions and global capitals. The team also leads coverage of major breaking news events, policy announcements, court proceedings, natural disasters, public emergencies and significant international developments. Reports published by the newsdesk are based on information gathered from reporters on the ground, official statements, government agencies, court records, regulatory filings, recognised institutions and other authoritative sources. Stories undergo editorial scrutiny and verification processes to ensure accuracy, fairness and relevance, and are updated as events evolve and additional information becomes available. Whether covering a key political decision in New Delhi, an economic policy shift affecting millions, a landmark court ruling or a major global event, the HT News Desk aims to provide readers with reliable, fact-based journalism that delivers not only the latest developments but also the context and analysis needed to understand their wider implications.Read More
