VIDEO – Livestock on the loose again as horses graze near N17 close to Gert Sibande District offices
Two horses grazing near GSDM offices in Ermelo raise N17 road safety concerns after recent truck collision.
ERMELO – Two horses were spotted grazing next to the Gert Sibande District Municipality’s (GSDM) offices along Joubert Street, right next to the busy N17 highway this morning, 12 June.
This area is directly opposite the informal tyre-selling spot frequented by local traders.
The animals appeared unattended and had no visible supervision to prevent them from straying onto the road, raising concerns for passing motorists.
This comes just days after a major accident on the same road when a truck transporting steel beams collided with four cows approximately 6 km outside Ermelo on the N17 towards Bethal.
The vehicle veered off the road and crashed down a steep embankment, coming to a halt near a riverbed.
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Fortunately, the truck driver, Andries Mashile, sustained only minor injuries. Emergency services — including ER24 paramedics, Van Wettens Towing Services, Mpumalanga Traffic Control, and local SAPS — were quick to respond.
The presence of livestock near the roadway is a persistent hazard in the area. Authorities and animal owners are urged to ensure their animals are secured, while motorists are reminded to stay alert and cautious, especially on rural stretches of the N17.
