Calls for government to invest in rail infrastructure following fatal Wartburg smash

THE IFP in KZN has called on the government to invest more in rail transport infrastructure as matter of utmost urgency, saying this would curb truck accidents.

This, they believe would serve to significantly reduce road accidents caused by trucks, which are mainly used for the transportation of goods.

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The call comes in the wake of a tragic and fatal crash between a truck and a minibus in Wartburg, outside Pietermaritzburg, which claimed 13 lives.

IFP KZN provincial spokesperson on transport, Steven Moodley said his party believed that investing in rail freight services, will not only curb truck accidents, but will ease traffic burden on road networks.

‘This will further enhance the quality and longevity of roads. It is a fact that trucks operating on our roads are major contributors to road carnage, with devastating effects on many families.

‘This issue, therefore, deserves urgent attention, accompanied by tangible and practical action.

‘We are aware that the argument against our proposal will be the effect on the trucking industry and attendant job losses.

‘However, rail freight, albeit less labour-intensive, can serve as a catalyst for more job opportunities, enhanced economic growth and development in the transport industry.’

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Moodley challenged the Transport Department to look at urgently developing a dynamic, long-term and sustainable land use and multi-modal transportation framework, that will effectively address issues facing road infrastructure in the country.

‘We cannot continue losing innocent lives on our roads due to reckless and negligent truck drivers. We urge all motorists to observe all traffic rules, including adhering to the speed limits.’

He said the recent accident should serve as a wake-up call to the authorities, to consider investing in an effective rail system.

Meanwhile, KZN MEC for Transport Bheki Ntuli visited the area on Tuesday and expressed his sadness at the tragedy.

He ordered a full investigation into the death of the 13 people, saying the accident came at a time when his department was preparing for October – designated as Transport Month.

‘We send our heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and pray that those five people who sustained injuries would recover soon,’ said Ntuli.

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