Tragedy struck on Wednesday night when a Zhongtong bus carrying 12 passengers was involved in a serious accident along the Harare–Bulawayo Road, resulting in the death of one passenger and injuries to ten others. The incident occurred at the 21-kilometre peg, leaving communities and road users shocked and prompting authorities to call for increased caution, particularly during the festive season.
According to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), the accident unfolded around 9:30 pm when the bus driver lost control while attempting to overtake another vehicle. The vehicle veered off the road and overturned, landing on its side and causing severe injuries to most of the passengers.
“The ZRP confirms a fatal road traffic accident which occurred at the 21-kilometre peg along Harare–Bulawayo Road on 24/12/25 at around 2130 hours,” police said in an official statement.
The statement added, “A bus driver who was driving a Zhongtong bus carrying 12 passengers towards Harare attempted to overtake another vehicle and lost control of the bus. The vehicle veered off the road to the right, overturned and landed on its side. As a result of the accident, one passenger died on the spot, while ten others sustained injuries.”
Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with passengers trapped inside the overturned vehicle and other motorists rushing to assist. Emergency responders, including police and paramedics, were quickly on site to provide assistance and transport the injured to nearby medical facilities.
One Dead, Ten Injured in Harare–Bulawayo Road Bus Accident
Authorities confirmed that the deceased passenger died instantly as a result of the impact, while the ten injured were receiving treatment for varying degrees of injuries. The exact condition of the injured has not been fully disclosed, but officials have described several cases as serious, requiring urgent medical attention.
The ZRP has launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash, including the bus driver’s conduct, road conditions, and potential contributing factors such as vehicle speed and visibility. Police spokespersons emphasised that the preliminary findings suggest that overtaking maneuvers in risky conditions remain a leading cause of road accidents.
This accident has reignited concerns over road safety along major highways, particularly during peak travel periods such as the Christmas holidays, when traffic volumes increase significantly. Authorities have repeatedly urged motorists to exercise caution, avoid risky driving practices, and ensure vehicles are roadworthy before embarking on long journeys.
“The festive season brings increased traffic on all major roads, and drivers are reminded to be vigilant and patient,” the ZRP advised. “Overtaking should only be attempted when it is safe to do so, and drivers must always adhere to speed limits and traffic rules to prevent accidents.”
Road safety campaigns have historically highlighted that buses carrying multiple passengers require extra care due to their size, weight, and reduced maneuverability compared to smaller vehicles. Accidents involving buses often result in multiple casualties, underscoring the importance of adherence to traffic regulations and defensive driving practices.
Local transport authorities have also been called upon to ensure that operators comply with safety standards, including vehicle maintenance and driver training, to minimise the risk of similar incidents. Many motorists have pointed out that fatigue and pressure to meet schedules during busy travel periods can contribute to such tragedies.
The recent crash on the Harare–Bulawayo Road serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with reckless driving and unsafe overtaking. It has sparked discussions on the need for increased enforcement of traffic laws and better public awareness campaigns aimed at promoting safe driving practices.
Community leaders and road safety advocates have expressed condolences to the family of the deceased passenger and wished a speedy recovery to those injured. They have also urged the public to remain vigilant and report unsafe driving behaviors when observed, to prevent further loss of life.
As investigations continue, authorities have reiterated that road safety remains a shared responsibility. Drivers are encouraged to prioritise caution over speed, especially on highways that experience heavy traffic during the holiday season.
The accident, which claimed one life and left ten injured, stands as a tragic reminder of the importance of careful driving, adherence to road rules, and awareness of the potentially fatal consequences of reckless maneuvers on Zimbabwe’s major roads.
Source- ZimEye
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