President Declares national disaster after devasta...

President Declares national disaster after devastating bus accident

Philemon Jambaya

Zim Now Editor

A dark cloud of grief has descended upon Zimbabwe after a horrific bus accident claimed the lives of 24 people along the Beitbridge-Masvingo Highway yesterday morning.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has declared the incident a national disaster, sending shockwaves of sorrow throughout the nation.

The accident occurred when an Urban Connect bus collided head-on with a commercial haulage truck at the Lutumba tollgate, leaving a trail of destruction and despair. Witnesses described the scene as chaotic, with the driver of the bus making a fatal overtaking error.

President Mnangagwa expressed his deepest condolences to the families of the deceased, stating that the government would provide state-assisted burials to the victims. He also appealed to motorists to exercise extreme caution on the roads, emphasizing the need for collective responsibility in preventing such tragedies.

The Beitbridge Hospital was overwhelmed with injured survivors, with staff working tirelessly to provide medical attention. Urban Connect management conveyed their condolences to the bereaved families and offered assistance to those affected.

Mayor Mafuta called for increased caution among drivers, highlighting the need for speed governance on buses. The Beitbridge Rural District Council provided fuel for ambulances and supported the police on the scene.