Midlands Reporter
Kadoma, Zimbabwe – A truck driver and his passenger narrowly escaped injury after abandoning their vehicle moments before it collided with a train at a rail crossing in Kadoma late Wednesday night, the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) confirmed.
The incident, which caused a derailment, marks the third such collision in the country over the past two weeks.
According to the NRZ, the driver lost control of the sand-laden truck as it approached the level crossing around 11:50 PM.
“The driver and his passenger jumped off the truck and left it to ram into the last two wagons of the passing train,” the NRZ stated.
Both individuals were hospitalized but later discharged with minor injuries.
The NRZ reiterated calls for heightened caution, emphasizing the dangers of negligent driving near railway crossings.
“We keep urging drivers to exercise extreme caution when approaching all level crossings and avoid using defective vehicles,” the statement read.
This collision follows two similar incidents in recent weeks. On May 21, a Honda Fit carrying six passengers was struck by a train on Chiremba Road in Harare at approximately 1:00 AM. All occupants survived with moderate injuries.
Earlier, on May 13, a police Mahindra vehicle in Gweru was severely damaged after failing to yield to an oncoming train. Two officers inside escaped with minor wounds.
Authorities have raised alarms over the recurring accidents, urging motorists to adhere to safety protocols.
“These incidents are preventable. Drivers must prioritize vigilance, especially at night, and respect railway signals,” the NRZ added.
Investigations into the Kadoma collision are ongoing as officials seek to address the spike in rail-related incidents.
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