By Rejoice Vanessa Nyathi
A recent bus accident near Gwebu bus stop in Zimbili, Ward 19 of Umzingwane District, has once again raised serious concerns about road safety and the enforcement of traffic regulations in the area.
The latest incident, which left several passengers injured, marks the third such accident in recent times, following two similar crashes at Magondeni in previous years.
Locals are now calling for urgent intervention to improve road safety measures and to make sure there is stricter regulation of public transport services.
Similo, a passenger injured in the latest crash, said the bus had departed around 5pm, three hours later than its scheduled 2pm departure.
“While we were still on board, welding work was being done on the bus,” she revealed, adding that passengers did not believe speeding was the cause, although the exact reason for the accident remains unclear,” she said.
Similo further criticised the bus company for failing to arrange emergency medical assistance. “My brother, who is a police officer, had to call the ambulance. Eight people were injured, that is five women and three men who were taken to Esigodini Hospital,” she said.
Although the bus driver visited the injured passengers at 2am and again the next day, Similo claimed the company did not cover any medical expenses.
She, however, acknowledged support from the local councillor, who sent representatives to check on the victims.
Ward 19 Councillor, Pilate Sibanda, expressed deep concern over the repeated incidents and pledged to work with authorities to hold the bus company accountable.
“We are deeply concerned about the bus accident and the injuries sustained by our community members. We will work with relevant authorities to make sure the bus company takes responsibility and provides necessary support,” he said.
The villagers said the string of accidents underscores an urgent need for reliable transport services, improved vehicle maintenance and better enforcement of safety regulations to protect passengers.
This story was produced as part of the CITE Youth Network training program, which aims to empower young women in rural communities with digital skills, enhancing their ability to create and share community news.