A tragic accident in Shurugwi has claimed five lives, including a heavily pregnant woman, after a Honda Fit plunged into a disused chrome pit on Sunday evening. The bodies of the victims, three of whom were relatives, were retrieved from the 30-meter-deep pit, with rescue operations extending into Monday morning.
Shurugwi District Development Coordinator (DDC) Romeo Shangwa confirmed the incident, stating that the fifth passenger’s body was only recovered after overnight efforts to pump water out of the shaft. The police’s sub-aqua unit played a crucial role in retrieving the bodies, as the depth and water levels in the pit posed significant challenges to the operation.
According to reports, six passengers were in the vehicle at the time of the accident. Miraculously, one individual managed to swim to safety after the car went into the pit, surviving the ordeal. The Midlands Police Spokesperson, Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko, indicated that authorities are still in the process of identifying the deceased and notifying their families before releasing their names to the public.
The Honda Fit was reportedly traveling toward Zvishavane when the accident occurred. The cause of the crash remains unclear, though local authorities are investigating whether factors such as poor visibility, road conditions, or driver error contributed to the vehicle veering off course and plunging into the pit. The abandoned chrome mine shafts in the area pose a significant hazard to road users, particularly at night or in adverse weather conditions.
Authorities are continuing investigations into the incident to determine what led to the fatal plunge. The accident has once again highlighted the dangers posed by abandoned mining pits in Shurugwi and other mining communities in Zimbabwe. Many of these pits, left open after mining activities cease, have become death traps for unsuspecting travelers and locals.
Shangwa expressed concern over the lack of protective barriers around disused mining pits, which continue to pose a threat to public safety. “This tragedy underscores the urgent need for mining companies and local authorities to rehabilitate or secure disused pits to prevent further loss of life,” he stated.
Over the years, there have been numerous calls for improved safety measures in mining areas, including fencing off abandoned pits and erecting warning signs. However, enforcement of such measures has been inconsistent, leaving many hazardous areas exposed.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the Shurugwi community, with many residents expressing grief and frustration over the recurring dangers posed by abandoned mining sites. Community leaders and residents are now calling on the government to take decisive action in ensuring that mining companies adhere to land rehabilitation policies.
A local resident, who witnessed the recovery operation, said, “This is not the first time lives have been lost due to these open pits. The authorities must act to ensure no more families suffer such painful losses.”
Shangwa acknowledged the growing concerns and assured the public that discussions are underway to address the issue of abandoned pits. “We are engaging with mining stakeholders and government authorities to explore solutions to ensure the safety of our roads and communities,” he said.
The tragic accident in Shurugwi serves as a grim reminder of the dangers associated with unregulated mining activities and the urgent need for authorities to implement safety measures. While the focus now is on supporting the affected families and concluding investigations, the broader issue of public safety in mining communities must not be ignored.
As the country mourns the five lives lost, it is imperative that authorities take concrete steps to prevent similar incidents in the future. Ensuring that disused pits are secured, coupled with better road safety awareness, could go a long way in preventing further tragedies in Zimbabwe’s mining districts.
In other news – Three killed as haulage truck overturns after crashing into van in Harare
Harare, Zimbabwe – A devastating road accident occurred last night at the Dzivaresekwa turnoff traffic lights along Bulawayo Road in Harare, claiming three lives and leaving three others injured. The fatal crash involved a haulage truck that lost control, colliding with a van before overturning.
According to eyewitness accounts, the accident happened around 8:30 PM when a heavily loaded haulage truck failed to stop at the traffic lights. The truck, reportedly traveling at high speed, rammed into a van that was waiting at the intersection. Read More
