Johannesburg - Mpumalanga premier David Mabuza expressed shock and sadness over the death of 29 people in a bus accident on Moloto Road in Mpumalanga on Monday night.
“Indeed we are shocked by such a huge number of deaths and on behalf of the provincial government I offer our deepest and most sincere condolences to the bereaved families, he said in a statement on Tuesday morning.
This was after a collision between a truck and a bus left 29 people dead and eight critically injured.
Mpumalanga safety department said 26 people were killed on the scene and three more on arrival at KwaMhlanga hospital. Eight people were critically injured.
Department spokesman Joseph Mbuza said the accident happened when a stationary bus was on the road as a truck was approaching.
“The truck driver did not see the bus until it was too late. The truck driver swerved to the right to try and avoid the bus,” he said.
The premier urged motorists to be cautious and practice patience on the roads.
“Accidents are not only expensive to government but they rob families of their loved ones, breadwinners and future leaders for the country.”
He also called on law enforcement agencies to help reduce road accidents so government could concentrate on service delivery.
Bus company, Putco confirmed on Tuesday morning that the bus involved belonged to them.
The company's spokesman Romeo More also confirmed that the bus driver was among those who were killed.
“Putco's managing director, Franco Pisapia expressed his shock at the horrific accident,” he said.
More said the company had sent officials to visit the injured and help where was possible.
“A full investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of the accident and Putco will co-operate fully with authorities in this regard.” - Sapa