Railway Safety Regulator Conducts Preliminary Investigation Into Level Crossing Accident At The Arnot Level Crossing

The Railway Safety Regulator (RSR) has expressed deep condolences following a tragic incident at the Arnot Level Crossing, Steve Tswete Municipality at Sikhululiwe Village on 31 July 2024, at approximately 16:05.

The accident involved a Transnet train (T8806) and a school bus, transporting 30 learners. The accident resulted in the loss of six young lives aged between 16 and 18. Additionally, ten learners are critically injured, with the remaining learners and the bus driver sustaining minor injuries.

RSR inspectors have been on the scene, conducting a preliminary investigation to ascertain the circumstances leading to this occurrence. The findings from this initial investigation will be shared within the next 24 hours.

“I wish to share my sincere condolences with the families who lost loved ones in this tragic accident, said the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the RSR”, Mmuso Selaledi.

“Level crossing accidents are still a concern for the RSR. Upon comparing the statistics for level crossing occurrences between the same periods in the last and current financial years, a reduction is noticed. This indicates that the interventions employed by the rail sector is addressing the concerns. However, both industry and public have a role to play in ensuring that level crossing are safe for motorists, pedestrians and rail operations.”