A devastating taxi crash in Bassonia on Comaro Street early on the morning of October 29 has left seven people dead and nine others critically injured.

The tragic incident occurred on a stretch of road known for its steep gradient and sharp descent, where the speed limit is 60 km/h and a speed camera is in operation.

Despite these safety measures, the combination of rain, speed, and the road’s slope continues to make this section of Comaro Street particularly hazardous.

The crash, which unfolded shortly after 08:00, prompted a large-scale emergency response and has become a grim reminder during Transport Month of the urgent need for stronger road safety education, enforcement, and driver awareness.

ER24 Johannesburg South paramedics were the first to arrive on scene and quickly called for backup after discovering several passengers trapped inside the wrecked minibus taxi.

@southern.courierComaro Street remains closed as emergency crews and investigators work through the wreckage following the devastating taxi cr*sh in Bassonia. Read full story on comarochronicle.co.za♬ original sound – Southern Courier

Rescue teams from Secure Fire and the City of Johannesburg Fire Department used the Jaws of Life to free the victims.

ER24 branch manager, Faheem Essop, confirmed that nine people were transported in critical condition to nearby hospitals. Sadly, seven later succumbed to their injuries. Police and traffic officials continue to investigate the cause of the crash.

In a concerning development, another collision occurred less than an hour later, shortly after 09:00, on the same stretch of Comaro Street.

This second accident involved an SUV and a taxi at the intersection near the entrance to the Bassonia Sun apartment complex. Emergency services responded swiftly, and while no fatalities were immediately reported, the incident further highlighted the dangers posed by this busy section of road, particularly in wet weather conditions.

@southern.courier According to reports received, motorists are urged to avoid Comaro Road between the N12 highway and Bassonia Shopping Centre following a serious motor vehicle accident. The road has been temporarily closed, and delays are expected. Motorists are advised to use alternative routes where possible. Full story to follow on southerncourier.co.za #ComaroRoad #Bassonia ♬ Ambulance – Thay Barbozete B.M

Comaro Street has long been regarded by motorists as one of the more dangerous stretches of road in the Bassonia area. The tragic events of Wednesday morning have renewed calls for motorists to observe speed limits, adjust for weather conditions, and exercise greater caution on steep or slippery roads.

The role and risks of the taxi industry

The tragedy also shines a spotlight on the vital but troubled minibus taxi industry. According to the National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD), the industry carries around 75% of South Africa’s commuters daily, making it the backbone of public transport.

Despite its importance to the economy and millions of families, safety concerns continue to plague the sector.

Transport Month, first declared in October 2005, aims to promote awareness of transport’s role in economic growth and the need for safe, reliable, and affordable systems. Yet, incidents like the Bassonia crash highlight how far the country still has to go in ensuring that safety remains a priority.

Calls for better training and vehicle maintenance

Dewald Ranft, chairperson of the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), expressed concern over the ongoing loss of life on South African roads. He stressed that roadworthiness is the foundation of safe driving.

“A roadworthy vehicle lowers the risk of an accident. Regular servicing and maintenance at an accredited workshop provides peace of mind,” he said.

Ranft called for stricter vehicle maintenance checks, improved driver training, and stronger law enforcement to curb unsafe practices. He added that South African motorists face unique challenges such as poor road conditions, weak enforcement, and corruption that worsen the road safety crisis.

Driving safely in wet weather

As the rainy season has set in, the Tyre, Equipment, and Parts Association (TEPA) has urged drivers to adjust their habits when driving on wet roads.

TEPA vice chairperson Dylan Petzer warned that stopping distances can double in rainy conditions, turning a safe 70m stop on dry tarmac into a dangerous 140m slide.

Petzer’s advice is simple: slow down, check tyre tread and pressure, and ensure your brakes and wipers are in good condition. Warning signs like squealing or grinding brakes should never be ignored. “Complacency kills,” he said. “The speed limit is not a target, especially in rain.”

Safety tips for motorists

Motorists are encouraged to:

• Slow down in wet or low-visibility conditions.

• Check tyres, brake and wipers regularly.

• Ensure lights and indicators are working.

• Keep a safe following distance.

• Avoid sudden braking or sharp turns on slippery roads.

• Ensure vehicles are roadworthy and serviced at accredited workshops.

As authorities continue to investigate Wednesday’s tragic crash, the message remains clear: safer roads require shared responsibility. During Transport Month, South Africans were reminded that every life lost on the road is one too many, and prevention begins with vigilance, education, and care.

A call for safer roads

For residents of Johannesburg South, the Bassonia tragedy hits painfully close to home. Comaro Street is a vital route connecting many local suburbs from Glenvista and Mulbarton to Bassonia and Oakdene and is used daily by thousands of commuters, school transport vehicles, and taxis.

Local authorities and residents alike are calling for renewed efforts to improve driver behaviour, enforce traffic laws, and ensure that all vehicles, particularly public transport, are roadworthy and properly maintained. Many believe that consistent road safety campaigns, speed monitoring, and visible law enforcement could help prevent similar tragedies in the future.

As Johannesburg South continues to grow, so too must the community’s commitment to responsible driving and mutual respect on the road.

Every motorist has a role to play in keeping the area’s roads safe by slowing down, staying alert, and remembering that lives depend on every decision made behind the wheel.

WATCH: 7 dead, 9 critically injured in horrific Bassonia taxi crash