The KwaZulu-Natal provincial government has declared this week as a period of mourning following the recent road accidents that has claimed 21 lives.
The three accidents – one in Greytown which claimed 11 lives, another in Kranskop which killed six people and the one in KwaDukuza which claimed three lives – all happened on Saturday.
One of the victims, a 12-year-old pupil at the Durban Preparatory High School, is still in a critical condition.
Both his parents and elder brother, a pupil at the Michaelhouse School in the KZN Midlands, were killed in the accident.
They were returning from a Sevens Rugby game at the Wembley College in Greytown.
MEC for Transport Siboniso Duma, at a press briefing on Monday morning, urged the people of the province to come together in support of the bereaved families during this heart-wrenching time.
“This is an unimaginable loss,” said Mr Duma.
“Our deepest sympathies go out to the families. No words can truly capture the pain and irreparable loss they are experiencing.”
The latest accident, that occurred on Saturday afternoon, on the R622 between Mooi River and Greytown claimed the lives of 12 people.
As the investigation into the cause of the accident continues, local residents have raised concerns about the hazardous conditions on the R622. The road is notorious for its potholes, wandering animals, narrow sections, and faded road markings. Some motorists frequently overtake across solid barrier lines, further exacerbating the dangers.
In response to the tragedy, the Department of Transport has announced a series of interventions to assist the grieving families.
Mr Duma detailed the government’s support measures, that include:
Assigning experienced officials to visit each affected family, providing personalised support to help them navigate this difficult time.
Consulting with families to ensure that the departed are given dignified funerals, especially in cases where multiple lives were lost in a single incident.
Coordinating with the Road Accident Fund to explain the assistance packages available to the families.
Planning memorial services in consultation with the families, ensuring that these events honour the victims appropriately.
Assigning social workers to offer continuous psycho-social support during the grieving period and funeral ceremonies.
The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the local community, particularly at Michaelhouse School, where one of the victims, Grade 8 pupil Garth Finnemore, was a pupil. Garth’s younger brother, Harry, a pupil at Durban Preparatory High School, was critically injured in the accident and remains in intensive care.
Expressions of grief and support have poured in from schools and community members alike. Michaelhouse, in a statement on social media, conveyed its deep sorrow: “Our deepest condolences to the grieving family. The entire Michaelhouse community is in mourning.”
Durban Preparatory High School echoed these sentiments, offering prayers for Harry’s recovery and comfort for the affected families. Other local institutions, including Hilton College and Maritzburg College, also expressed their condolences and solidarity with the grieving families.
