It’s another grim scene on the N1 near Ingwe Lodge, a stretch many drivers already know as trouble, especially after dark. A Zimbabwean Marcopolo passenger bus crashed in the early hours of the morning, leaving five people dead and 32 injured.
According to initial reports, the bus lost control at around 02:50 on the N1-29 between Makhado and Musina before veering off the road and landing in a ditch. Emergency services, SAPS, and traffic officials rushed to the scene and worked through the early hours to stabilise the situation and assist the injured.
The injured have been classified as follows: four in serious condition, 10 critical, and 18 with minor injuries. They were transported to nearby medical facilities for treatment as rescue teams secured the area.
Limpopo Transport MEC Violet Mathye has confirmed the incident and once again urged motorists to exercise extreme caution on this route. This latest crash adds to growing concerns about safety along the N1 corridor between Louis Tritchardt and Beitbridge, a route heavily used by trucks and long-distance buses.
Read | At Least 40 People Confirmed Dead in N1 Limpopo Bus Crash
The road has since been temporarily reopened, but the scene remains active. Drivers are warned to expect delays, possible stop-and-go traffic, and even temporary closures if emergency crews need to take over lanes again.
Motorists travelling through the area are advised to slow down well ahead of Ingwe Lodge and stay alert. Alternative routes include the Witvlag turn-off or using the R523 via Nzhelele connecting to the D4.
This stretch of road continues to be flagged as a high-risk zone, with fatigue, long-haul pressure, and heavy traffic volumes playing a major role. For many in the industry, it’s becoming clear that more needs to be done before more lives are lost on this road.
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