Nine farmworkers killed, eight injured in N1 collision

A COLLISION between two trucks left nine farmworkers dead and at least eight injured on the N1 between De Doorns and Touws River yesterday

ER24 spokesperson Russell Meiring said paramedics, along with the Life Healthcare and Western Cape Metro, arrived on the scene shortly after 8am and found two trucks in the middle of the road.

“Medics assessed the patients and found that nine people had sustained fatal injuries. Nothing could be done for them and they were declared dead,” Meiring said.

Those injured had ranged from critical to moderate injuries, he said, adding that they were flown to Tygerberg Hospital and most of the patients were transported to Worcester Private Hospital and Mediclinic.

Rural and Farmworkers Development Organisation executive director Billy Claasen called on the president and the ministers of labour and agriculture to step in and stop what he said was “inhumane” transportation of farmworkers on open trucks and bakkies.

“This places the spotlight again on the transportation of farmworkers. Farmers and labour contractors sometimes make use of open trucks. This practice is dangerous to farmworkers, who sit without any protection on these trucks.

“We furthermore call on the authorities to give the necessary support to the farmworkers and the families in this time of shock and bereavement.”

Classen said the accident happened while they were still awaiting reports of accidents that happened “years ago” in Piketberg, Stellenbosch, Citrusdal and Saron. “I have written numerous letters to Kenny Africa, the traffic chief of the Western Cape, without any success,” he said.

Transport MEC Bonginkosi Madikizela said there was a great deal of pressure on truck drivers, delivery vehicle drivers and drivers transporting essential services workers. “At the same time, there are very few vehicles on the road. As the winter rains begin, roads start to become slippery. Drivers may be tempted to drive too fast, but this is always dangerous. Stick to the speed limit at all times and obey all the rules of the road,” he said.

Agriculture MEC Ivan Meyer said provincial personnel were dispatched to the scene to facilitate access to counselling for the families of the dead and the injured.

He said they would also determine to what extent the department could assist with funeral arrangements and provide further support.

This places the spotlight on the transportation of farmworkers Billy Claasen RURAL AND FARMWORKERS DEVELOPMENT ORG.