Two primary school pupils killed in nasty accident

MANZINI – Good intention turned into tragedy when two children out of more than 40 died in a horrific accident yesterday.

A Good Samaritan had offered a lift to approximately 40 Othandweni Primary School pupils in his mini-truck because the river they were to cross was flooded.

According to sources close to the matter, the truck driver lost control of the vehicle when he was about to reach the Great Usutu River.

"There were two vehicles in front of him when he realised that his brakes were not functioning. He tried to overtake the two cars, and unfortunately there was another coming on the opposite lane.

"He tried to swerve his truck back to its lane, but failed.

"He ended up hitting the concrete barrier before overturning, and throwing the children on the road. It was a horrible scene," the source said.

The bridge is situated about 800 metres away from the Bhunya/Mankayane traffic circle along the Mankayane road.

The source said it was very fortunate that the children were not flung into the flooded river because they would have been swept away.

"Motorists were of great assistance as they transported the injured to Mankayane Hospital, and also administered first aid," the source said.

Police Public Relations Officer Superintendent Wendy Hleta confirmed that at the time of compiling this report two pupils were reported to have passed away.

She said they were still to confirm the number of children were involved in the accident.

"Parents of children who have not returned home should contact the Malkerns Police Station or visit Mankayane Hospital," Hleta said.

Comments

This is an eye opener to Minister Ntuthuko. More bridges should be constructed to avoid similar situations. I am resident of Macetjeni under MP Gundwane, he absolutely has done nothing to develop his constituency. There is another bridge at Maphakane which is used by children to and from Sibusisweni, Phonjwane and Gilgal Schools which is of great danger. During heavy rains water covers the bridge (runs on top) and people and cars have difficulty crossing the bridge since you can not really see where the bridge ends and afraid of being swept away yet they are supposed to reach their various destinations. So as a person you always wonder what really MP Gundwane is doing for us or he only waits for occurrences and offers help through the electronic media by asking for donations and nothing to develop his constituency.
Nov 10, 2010, 11:41 AM, Zandi Motsa (ns@swazi.net)

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