Bakkies condemned after 1 learner dies and 12 critically-injured in horrific Limpopo scholar transport crash (Watch video)
Reading Time: 2 minutesLimpopo MEC Violet Mathye has condemned the use of bakkies to transport learners after a fatal crash in Vhembe claimed the life of a 15-year-old learner. Watch our accompanying video report.
MEC Violet Mathye Image Credit: Arrive Alive
Learner killed after bakkie overturns in Vhembe
The use of bakkies to transport schoolchildren has once again come under scrutiny following a tragic crash in Dididi Village, Vhembe District, where a 15-year-old learner lost his life on Thursday.
According to the Limpopo Department of Transport and Community Safety, a Toyota Hilux bakkie transporting learners lost control and overturned at around midday. One learner died, while 12 people, including the driver, suffered critical injuries. A further 13 learners sustained minor injuries and received medical treatment.
A video report accompanying this story provides additional information on the incident and the Department’s response.
MEC warns against transporting learners in bakkies
Limpopo MEC for Transport and Community Safety, Violet Mathye, strongly condemned the continued use of bakkies for scholar transport, describing the practice as dangerous and unlawful.
She stressed that bakkies are designed to transport goods rather than passengers, particularly children, and urged parents and communities to prioritize learner safety over convenience.
The Department reminded the public that only approved scholar transport vehicles, including registered buses and midibuses with valid operating licences, roadworthy certificates and qualified drivers, may legally transport learners.
Image Credit: Limpopo News
Authorities to intensify enforcement
Following the fatal crash, the Department, together with the Department of Education, SAPS and Municipal Traffic Authorities, will increase operations targeting illegal scholar transport.
Officials warned that operators using bakkies to transport learners illegally could have their vehicles impounded and face prosecution.
MEC Mathye extended her condolences to the family of the deceased learner and wished those injured a full recovery, while calling on communities to help end the unsafe use of bakkies for school transport before more lives are lost.