Cape Town - The Western Cape Scholar Transport Association said parents have to inspect the vehicles their children used as an accident involving an overloaded taxi has claimed the life of a 16-year-old girl.
The Toyota Quantum had been carrying 28 passengers when it flipped onto its back.
According to the City of Cape Town's Traffic services spokesperson Maxine Bezuidenhout, the minibus overturned on Swartklip Road on Friday morning.
“The City's Traffic Service can confirm a minibus carrying schoolchildren overturned on Swartklip Road this morning. One passenger was declared deceased on scene. Information indicates 28 other persons were injured and taken to nearby hospitals.
“The driver of the vehicle was taken into custody at Mitchells Plain SAPS,” she said.
Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness spokesperson Dwayne Evans said: “We are deeply saddened to confirm that the Emergency Medical Services responded to a tragic incident involving a minibus on Spine Road this morning. Despite the best efforts of our emergency teams, one passenger sadly lost their life at the scene. Our heartfelt condolences go out to their family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.
“The remaining passengers, who sustained injuries ranging from minor to moderate, were promptly transported to nearby medical facilities, where they are receiving the care they need. Our thoughts are with all those affected by this heartbreaking event.”
Police spokesperson FC van Wyk confirmed the arrest of the unlicensed 25-year-old driver.
“The 25-year-old taxi driver was arrested for the mentioned charges, and will appear in the Mitchells Plain Magistrates court once charged.”
The scholar association's chairman Chumani Ngxumza said parents should be involved in the checking of the vehicles.
“The safety of the scholars is all of our responsibility, but parents must check if their child has a proper seat, and if the car is roadworthy. We as the operators must also make sure that the driver we employ has all the legal papers and the condition of the car is good. These days it's easy to just take a car and transport children but this industry is not regulated. If we could all be part of the association, then we would make sure that every driver has a licence and professional driving permit (PrDP).
Western Cape Mobility MEC Isaac Sileku said his thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to the family of the deceased during this incredibly difficult time.
“We also wish a swift recovery to those who were injured. The safety and well-being of our children are of the utmost importance, and this incident is a devastating reminder of the fragility of life.”
mandilakhe.tshwete@inl.co.za