Ekurhuleni EMS responds to bus crash involving primary school learners
The Ekurhuleni Emergency Management Services (EMS) is currently on the scene of a bus crash involving primary school children in Blackreef and Dekema, near Wadeville.
The Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) has confirmed that, fortunately, no fatalities have been reported.
Bus Collides with Truck Near Wadeville
The crash involved a school bus carrying learners from Segulong Primary School and a truck.
According to Ekurhuleni EMS spokesperson William Ntladi, the accident occurred when the bus collided with the truck, leading to multiple injuries among the young passengers.
“Upon arrival at the scene, we assessed the situation and confirmed that no children had sustained critical injuries. However, we have recorded 19 casualties with minor injuries. These learners have been treated at the scene by Emergency Medical Services paramedics, and soon, they will be transported to various hospitals for further medical care,” Ntladi explained.
Injuries and Medical Response
Among the injured, a 12-year-old boy sustained slight injuries, while 18 other children suffered minor injuries.
The medical response teams on-site have been working swiftly to assess and stabilize the learners before transporting them to local hospitals for additional medical attention.
Ntladi further assured parents and the public that EMS teams are providing the necessary support to all affected children.
Investigation into the Cause of the Crash
While the exact cause of the accident is yet to be determined, authorities have launched an investigation to understand what led to the collision.
The Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) has confirmed that they are analyzing the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Traffic officials are also monitoring the area, ensuring that emergency personnel can carry out their duties without obstruction.
Parents and School Authorities Express Concern
News of the accident has left parents and school authorities deeply concerned.
One parent, who rushed to the scene after receiving a call about the accident, said:
“It’s every parent’s worst nightmare to hear that their child has been in an accident. We are grateful that no lives were lost, but it’s still very frightening.”
A representative from Segulong Primary School expressed relief that there were no critical injuries, stating:
“Our priority is the safety and well-being of our learners. We are working closely with emergency responders and parents to ensure that every child receives the necessary medical care and emotional support.”
Bus Safety and Road Regulations Under Scrutiny
This accident has sparked renewed concerns over the safety of school transport and adherence to road regulations.
Many parents and community members are calling for stricter enforcement of safety measures, particularly when it comes to school buses and heavy vehicles sharing the road.
A local community leader voiced frustration, saying:
“We need to ensure that school buses are always in good condition and that drivers are following all safety protocols. Children’s lives should never be at risk on the road.”
Authorities Urge Caution for School Transport Operators
Following the accident, Ekurhuleni EMS and EMPD officials have urged school transport operators to exercise extra caution on the roads.
They emphasized the importance of vehicle maintenance, proper driver training, and strict adherence to speed limits and traffic laws.
What Happens Next?
Authorities will continue their investigation into the crash, and parents will be updated on the condition of the injured learners.
For now, emergency responders remain on-site, ensuring that all necessary procedures are followed before clearing the accident scene.
The public is urged to remain patient as the investigation unfolds.
