A truck driver and his passenger narrowly escaped serious injury after they jumped out of their vehicle just moments before the truck collided with a passing train in Kadoma on Wednesday night. The collision caused a derailment, according to a statement by the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ). Fortunately, both the driver and passenger were treated at a hospital and discharged, but the incident has raised renewed concerns about road and rail safety across the country.
This accident marks the third train-vehicle collision reported nationwide in less than two weeks, intensifying fears over the growing dangers at rail and road level crossings. These incidents have sparked calls for improved safety protocols and increased caution among drivers, especially those operating large trucks.
The NRZ detailed that the truck involved in the latest crash was carrying a load of sand and appeared to have lost control as it approached a rail and road level crossing at approximately 11:50 PM. In an effort to avoid injury, both the truck driver and his passenger jumped from the vehicle just before the truck rammed into the last two wagons of the passing train. The prompt action by the two men likely saved their lives.
“The driver and his passenger jumped off the truck and left it to ram into the last two wagons of the passing train. Both men were rushed to hospital, treated, and discharged,” the NRZ said in its official statement.
While no serious injuries were reported in this latest case, the NRZ emphasized the importance of vigilance when approaching railway crossings. The organization continues to urge all truck drivers and motorists to exercise extreme caution near railway tracks and to ensure their vehicles are well-maintained and roadworthy. Operating defective vehicles or engaging in reckless driving at railway crossings increases the risk of devastating accidents.
Truck Driver and Passenger Escape Injury as Truck Rams Train in Kadoma
This recent collision in Kadoma follows two other train-vehicle accidents that occurred earlier in May. On May 21, a Honda Fit carrying six male passengers was hit by a train while crossing a railway line on Chiremba Road in Harare at about 1 AM. Thankfully, all six occupants survived with moderate injuries. The incident raised concerns about driver awareness and adherence to safety protocols when crossing railway tracks.
Even earlier, on May 13, a police Mahindra vehicle was badly damaged in Gweru after its driver failed to give way to an oncoming train at a level crossing. The two police officers in the vehicle survived with minor injuries. This accident underscored that not even emergency or official vehicles are exempt from the dangers posed by railway crossings.
The recurrence of train and vehicle collisions within a short span highlights the urgent need for enhanced safety measures at railway crossings throughout Zimbabwe. Truck drivers, in particular, face heightened risks due to the size and weight of their vehicles, which can cause significant damage in the event of a collision and make it harder to stop quickly.
Many stakeholders, including the NRZ and road safety advocates, are calling for improved signage, installation of barriers, and better public education campaigns to alert drivers of the dangers at level crossings. Some have also suggested the deployment of automated warning systems that alert drivers when a train is approaching.
In addition, regular vehicle inspections are critical to ensure that trucks and other heavy vehicles are in proper working condition. Mechanical failures such as brake issues or steering malfunctions near railway crossings can be catastrophic. Trucking companies and independent drivers alike must take responsibility for the maintenance and safety of their vehicles.
The public also plays a vital role in improving safety by adhering strictly to traffic rules, especially around railway tracks. Drivers must stop, look, and listen before crossing, and never try to beat a train at a level crossing. Many train collisions are preventable with patience and caution.
The recent accidents have also sparked conversations about the potential benefits of relocating some railway crossings or constructing overpasses and underpasses in high-traffic areas to separate road and rail traffic altogether. Such infrastructure projects, although costly, could significantly reduce collisions and save lives.
As Zimbabwe’s transportation networks grow, ensuring the safety of both road and rail users remains paramount. The Kadoma truck-train collision is a stark reminder that vigilance, proper vehicle maintenance, and adherence to safety protocols are essential to prevent further tragedies.
In conclusion, while the truck driver and passenger involved in the recent Kadoma crash were fortunate to escape injury, the incident underscores a broader safety challenge at railway crossings across Zimbabwe. Increased awareness, infrastructure improvements, and strict enforcement of traffic regulations are crucial steps needed to protect lives and prevent future collisions involving trucks and trains.
Source- Bulawayo24
