PRASA GCEO Expresses Heartfelt Condolences to the Families of Students in Level Crossing Accident

25 August 2010

Mr Lucky Montana, Group CEO of the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) expressed shock and sadness at the tragic accident which occurred in Cape Town and saw a minibus taxi collide with a Strand-bound commuter train, this morning, at 06:50.

The accident happened at the Buttskop level crossing between Blackheath and Melton Rose Stations. The information on hand indicates eight tragic fatalities while another seven learners are in a critical condition. One patient was airlifted to the Red Cross Children’s Hospital; the other six patients were taken to Tygerberg Hospital. The driver of the vehicle was taken to Kuils River Hospital. The train crew is being treated for shock with no reported injuries to train commuters.

“The loss of any life, especially at such a young ages leaves an indelible mark in the community, especially their families” said Mr Montana. “We are doing all we can to ensure that we offer a helping hand to the affected families. Unfortunately as a parent myself, this is even harder to accept. On behalf of PRASA, I would like to offer our heartfelt condolences to the affected families and we wish the injured children a speedy recovery” added Mr Montana.

Metrorail investigators are currently at the scene of the accident and are co-operating with the rescue service and police investigators. Representatives of the Rail Safety Regulator, rail technical experts and other appropriate agencies have been informed and will also be investigating the cause of the accident.