Gauteng premier Panyaza Lesufi on Monday expressed shock and sadness following a horrific crash in which at least 13 pupils were killed at Vanderbijlpark, in the Vaal.
The pupils from different primary and secondary schools were travelling in a Toyota Quantum taxi on Monday morning when the vehicle collided with a truck.
Speaking to broadcaster Newzroom Afrika at the scene, Lesufi said he was overwhelmed by the tragedy.
Distressed parents gathered at the crash site alongside emergency services and police officers.
“It’s an unbearable situation, an unbearable scene.
“The investigating team has just briefed me, but there are things I still need to know.
“It is clear that the taxi was trying to overtake several cars when it was hit by the truck.
Lesufi said the truck driver attempted to swerve to avoid the collision, but it was too late.
The premier said the growing private transport sector urgently needed stricter regulation.
“I really feel that we have left this sector unregulated for quite some time.
“I said to the member of the executive council (Gauteng education MEC Matome Chiloane) that I want him and the MEC for transport to immediately find a date for us to meet with this sector.
“I really feel that we need to engage this sector.
“Remember, within the school transport sector we have some regulations.
“However, I think within the private school transport system, there are lots of loose ends and unfortunately, this is the price we paid this morning,” said Lesufi.
Gauteng provincial police spokesperson lieutenant colonel Mavela Masondo said the driver of the taxi was also injured and in hospital.
Police confirmed that some of the injured pupils later died after being rushed to hospital, bringing the death toll to 13.
The crash remains under investigation.
