A tragic incident in Chikanga, Mutare, has claimed the life of a young man after he was struck by a goods train while walking along the railway line, in what authorities suspect may have been a suicide.
The victim, 24-year-old Morelife Manyawu, lost his life on Tuesday morning when he was hit by a cargo train travelling from Marondera to Mozambique. Witnesses at the scene reported that the impact was immediate, with Manyawu suffering fatal injuries that led to his instant death.
Assistant Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka, representing Manicaland police, confirmed the incident, emphasizing the severity of the event and the tragic circumstances surrounding it. “The freight train was en route to Mozambique when it collided with the victim. Emergency responders were unable to save him, and he was pronounced dead at the scene,” Chinyoka said.
Railway accidents, particularly involving pedestrians walking along tracks, have become a recurring concern in Zimbabwe. The Ministry of Transport and the National Railways of Zimbabwe have previously warned against using railway lines as walking paths, citing frequent collisions and fatalities. Many sections of railway tracks in urban and peri-urban areas are often used by pedestrians for convenience, putting them at significant risk.
Authorities noted that while investigations are ongoing, preliminary findings suggest the incident may have been intentional. Suicide along railway lines is a known, though tragic, occurrence worldwide, and law enforcement agencies are examining the circumstances leading to Manyawu’s death to determine whether it was an accident or deliberate act.
“Every year, there are several incidents where people are struck by moving trains, and unfortunately, some of these are intentional,” Inspector Chinyoka said. “Our officers are working closely with railway authorities to investigate and ensure such incidents are prevented where possible.”
The cargo train involved in the collision was transporting goods to Mozambique and was part of a routine freight schedule connecting Zimbabwe to its neighbouring countries. Railway operators confirmed that the train was travelling at a controlled speed, adhering to standard operational procedures, when the accident occurred.
Community members and local residents have expressed shock at the incident, noting that many young people use the railway line as a shortcut for walking to work, school, or other daily activities. Local advocacy groups have repeatedly called for improved safety measures, including pedestrian crossings, barriers, and public awareness campaigns to prevent such tragedies.
Railway Tragedy: Man Killed by Mozambique-Bound Freight Train
“The loss of life along railway lines is preventable,” said one community leader in Chikanga. “We urge parents, educators, and the authorities to raise awareness about the dangers of walking on tracks. It’s not just a matter of enforcement; people must understand the risks to avoid further tragedies.”
The incident has also reignited discussions about mental health and support systems in Zimbabwe. Experts note that suspected suicide cases among young adults often point to underlying stress, depression, or personal challenges. Psychologists and social workers advocate for accessible mental health services, community outreach, and hotlines that could help individuals in crisis before such fatal incidents occur.
Police have urged the public to report any suspicious behaviour along railway lines and to refrain from walking along tracks. They have also called on railway operators to enhance visibility of warning signs and to consider fencing off areas prone to pedestrian traffic.
For the railway crew, witnessing the accident was reportedly distressing. Train operators undergo training to respond to emergencies, but incidents like these often leave psychological scars, prompting counselling and debriefing sessions for affected personnel.
The Manicaland police department has launched a formal investigation into the incident, which will include interviews with witnesses, analysis of train records, and examination of the victim’s personal circumstances. Authorities have emphasized that the investigation aims not only to determine the cause of the death but also to provide closure for the family and community affected by the tragedy.
As Zimbabwe continues to expand and modernize its rail networks, officials stress the importance of balancing infrastructure growth with public safety. Awareness campaigns, regulatory enforcement, and community engagement remain central to preventing future accidents along the nation’s railway corridors.
In the meantime, the Chikanga community mourns the loss of Morelife Manyawu, a young man whose life was cut short in a tragic incident that underscores the dangers of railway lines and the importance of mental health support. Authorities continue to investigate, while residents are reminded to exercise caution near tracks and to seek help when facing personal difficulties.
Source- iHarare
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