Note to Editors: Please note Riona Gokool, MPL sound bite in English
The DA is deeply saddened by the tragic loss of life following this morning’s horrific collision between a minibus taxi and a truck on the R102 near Lotus Park, Isipingo, in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN).
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families, friends and loved ones of those who have perished. We also extend our thoughts to the many people who have been injured and are currently receiving medical care.
This devastating accident – which included learners – has claimed multiple lives and left several others with critical injuries. This tragedy again underscores the urgent need for decisive action to improve road safety across our province. The R102 has been the scene of recurring collisions, and the terrible loss of life this morning must serve as a stark reminder that current measures are not sufficient.
The DA calls on all relevant authorities, including the South African Police Service (SAPS), Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) and eThekwini Metro Police, to conduct a thorough, transparent investigation into the factors that led to this collision. This must include road conditions, vehicle standards and driver behaviour. It is critical to establish whether infrastructure issues, inadequate enforcement, or systemic failures played a role.
Law-abiding road users deserve safe travel conditions, and families should never have to endure this level of grief.
The DA, as a partner within KZN’s Government of Provincial Unity (GPU), reiterates its longstanding call for proper investment in road safety interventions. This includes better enforcement of traffic laws, improvements to high-risk routes such as the R102, stringent vehicle fitness checks and enhanced driver education. Preventable tragedies like these must be met with preventable solutions.
As emergency crews continue their work at the scene and hospitals care for the injured, we urge commuters to heed warnings from authorities and avoid the area while operations are ongoing. The DA stands ready to work constructively with all stakeholders to ensure that this heartbreaking incident is the catalyst for real, lasting change on our roads.