The driver of a bakkie lost their life earlier today after colliding with a bus on the R559 near Blaauwbank, between Westonaria and Carletonville.

• Also read: Five family members killed, including three children, in R559 crash

Both vehicles sustained damage in the crash, with the Nissan NP200 bakkie the most severely affected. The bus, which was carrying schoolchildren, suffered damage to its rear, while the NP200 sustained significant front-end damage.

Resident Kobus van Zyl was among the first to arrive at the scene. He had previously spoken to the Randfontein Herald about the poor condition of the R559 and the numerous potholes along the route.

“Earlier this year, there was a serious accident on the curve along this road. Today’s crash happened at the same location. Drivers unfamiliar with the road are often unaware of the many potholes, especially when it rains, and how to avoid them.

If the municipality and government do not address the condition of this road, more accidents will occur,” Van Zyl said.

According to Van Zyl, the driver of the NP200 – whom he knows personally – was in a critical condition at the scene, even before emergency services arrived.

• Also read: Fed-up farmer fixes pothole-ridden R559 himself

Municipal spokesperson Phillip Montshiwa acknowledged the poor state of the R559.

“The municipality has an active programme to fill potholes and rehabilitate roads. Some projects, including work on the R559, are already under way,” he said.

Rand West Fire Chief Benny Mohlabeng was approached for comment but had not responded at the time of publication.

The Herald will publish more official information as it becomes available.