CAPE TOWN: A tragic incident unfolded in South Africa as a bus carrying worshippers en route to an Easter festival careened off a bridge on a mountain pass, igniting into flames and claiming the lives of at least 45 individuals, as confirmed by authorities.
The sole survivor, an eight-year-old child, sustained serious injuries and was receiving medical attention, reported officials in the Limpopo province.
The fatal crash occurred when the bus veered off the Mmamatlakala bridge, plunging 164 feet into a ravine before catching fire.
Rescue efforts are underway, but the intense flames have left many bodies unidentifiable and trapped inside the vehicle.
Preliminary reports suggest that the bus was traveling from Botswana to Moria town for an Easter pilgrimage when the driver seemingly lost control, resulting in the tragic incident.
Minister of transport Sindisiwe Chikunga, who was in Limpopo province for a road safety initiative, diverted her plans to visit the crash site.
She expressed condolences to the families of the victims and highlighted an ongoing investigation to determine the cause of the accident.
The South African government typically issues warnings about road safety during the Easter holidays, a period marked by heightened road travel and associated risks.
Last year alone, over 200 individuals lost their lives in road accidents during the Easter weekend. Moria, home to the Zionist Christian Church’s headquarters, witnesses a substantial influx of worshippers during its Easter pilgrimage, drawing crowds from various parts of South Africa and neighboring nations.
This year’s pilgrimage to Moria marks a significant return after disruptions due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
( with input from agency)