“Never Race A Train” — NRZ After Six Injured In Honda Fit Collision At 1 AM

Six people were rushed to hospital with serious injuries after their Honda Fit was hit by a train at a level crossing in Harare in the early hours of this morning. The driver allegedly tried to beat the approaching train at Chiremba Road, resulting in a devastating collision.

“Stop for trains” – NRZ warns after horror crash

The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) confirmed the incident in a series of tweets, stating:

“Six people were seriously injured when the vehicle they were travelling in was hit by a train in Harare early this morning. The driver of a Honda Fit tried to pass the level crossing at Chiremba Road in front of an approaching train, resulting in the collision… At about 0100 hours.”

The injured men were quickly taken to hospital, with the NRZ adding:

“We continue to urge motorists to exercise extreme caution when approaching level crossings and to stop if there is a train coming.”

A dangerous crossing with a deadly history

This is not the first tragedy at Chiremba Road. In April 2022, two people died when a train smashed into another Honda Fit at the same crossing. The railway traffic lights, meant to warn drivers of approaching trains, have been non-functional for years.

A police spokesman said at the time:

“Two people sadly died in the accident… Police appeal to all motorists to find alternative routes.”

Just last week, a Zimbabwe Republic Police vehicle was also hit by a train in Gweru after the officer failed to stop. The NRZ has repeatedly warned drivers to obey level crossing rules.

“Never race a train” – NRZ’s urgent plea

The NRZ has issued fresh warnings following today’s crash, stressing:

“Always come to a complete stop, check for approaching trains, and proceed with caution. Never attempt to race a train.”

With multiple accidents in recent years, calls are growing for better safety measures at Zimbabwe’s level crossings.