16 People Killed, 20 Injured as Bus Overturns on N1 Near Touws River
A devastating bus crash on the N1 near Touws River in the Western Cape has claimed the lives of 16 people, including at least three children, while more than 20 others were injured after the vehicle overturned in the early hours of Thursday.
The bus, carrying 78 passengers, was travelling from Cape Town to Idutywa in the Eastern Cape when the tragedy unfolded shortly after midnight. Many of those on board were reportedly holidaymakers heading to the Eastern Cape.
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Driver reportedly swerved to avoid another vehicle
According to the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), preliminary information suggests the driver lost control after attempting to avoid a collision with a delivery vehicle.
RTMC spokesperson Simon Zwane said the bus veered off course and overturned following the evasive manoeuvre. The exact circumstances surrounding the crash remain under investigation.
Rescue operation lasts for hours
The Western Cape Mobility Department confirmed that the accident occurred at approximately 12:40am, triggering a large-scale emergency response.
Rescue personnel worked through the night to assist victims trapped in the wreckage and transport the injured to safety. A stop-and-go traffic system was introduced on the busy highway while emergency services carried out recovery operations.
Twenty injured passengers were taken to Worcester Hospital, about 120 kilometres from Cape Town, for treatment. Authorities said two people sustained critical injuries, while 43 passengers declined medical attention after being assessed at the scene.
Investigation launched into cause of crash
Officials from the RTMC and the South African Police Service have launched a joint investigation to establish the precise cause of the fatal accident.
Investigators are expected to examine the condition of the bus, road circumstances and witness accounts as part of efforts to determine what led to one of the country’s deadliest road crashes in recent months.
Authorities have extended their condolences to the families of those who lost loved ones, while urging motorists to remain vigilant on South Africa’s roads, particularly during periods of increased holiday travel.
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