(PatriotNews.net) – On March 28th in South Africa, a tragic event occurred when a bus carrying passengers to an Easter festival swerved off a bridge and plunged nearly 200 feet, leading to the loss of at least 45 lives, as confirmed by authorities.
The bus was en route from Botswana to the town of Moria for the Easter pilgrimage when it tragically deviated off the Mmamatlakala bridge, hurtling into a ravine and erupting into flames upon impact.
Despite the horrific ordeal, there were some survivors among the passengers, although the exact number remains unclear at this time.
Officials have launched an investigation into the incident, and emergency responders are diligently working to retrieve the victims’ remains from the charred wreckage.
During the Easter holiday period, there is usually a surge in road travel, prompting the South African government to regularly issue alerts regarding the heightened likelihood of accidents during this period.
The Zion Christian Church’s Easter pilgrimage, centered in Moria, draws throngs of worshippers from various regions, making it one of the most significant events on the religious calendar. Making the trip to the church’s Easter celebration is a revered tradition, attracting devotees from far and wide, symbolizing a time of spiritual reflection and communal gathering.
The crash site, located near Mokopane, witnessed a flurry of activity as forensic teams scoured the scene for evidence, with the mangled bus serving as a grim reminder of the tragedy that unfolded.
President Cyril Ramaphosa conveyed his condolences to Botswana President Mokgweetsi Masisi and assured him of South Africa’s unwavering support in the aftermath of the accident.
Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga, who was in the province for a road safety campaign, promptly diverted her plans to visit the crash site and extend her sympathies to the bereaved families.
As investigations continue into the cause of the crash, authorities urge motorists to exercise caution during the Easter period, a time marked by heightened travel activity and increased road hazards.
The sole survivor of the crash was an 8-year-old child, miraculously, who received immediate medical care for serious injuries.
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