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Transport Minister Ben Martins has sent his condolences to the families of victims of a train crash that claimed the lives of at least 19 people in Mpumalanga this morning.

Preliminary reports received by the Department indicate that at least 19 people were killed at the scene and scores others injured in a crash involving a goods train and a truck carrying farm workers between Malelane and Hectorspruit, 80 kilometres east of Nelspruit in Mpumalanga.  Those injured have been taken to Shongwe, Tonga and Rob Ferreira hospitals.

"Only a week ago we were mourning the deaths of 20 people killed following a horrific bus crash in Meyerton, south of Johannesburg. Today we receive with shock the news that again 19 people have lost their lives and others injured from a crash involving a train and a truck carrying farm workers in Mpumalanga.

We are deeply saddened by this terrible occurrence that has claimed so many lives.  We send our sincere condolences to the families, relatives and friends of the deceased and wish those who are injured a speedy recovery” said Minister Martins.

The Rail Safety Regulator (RSR) and the Road Accident Fund (RAF), which are agencies of the Department of have dispatched officials to the scene of the crash to assist with investigations into the cause of the crash.

The RAF will also assist the bereaved families and the injured with assessments in relation to injury claims and funeral arrangements.

Fatal crashes at rail crossing sections are a grave concern for the Department. This is part of the reason why closed circuit television cameras (cctv) have been installed at some crossings to facilitate both vehicle and pedestrian safety at these crossings.

Relevant authorities have been called upon to investigate all possible reasons that could have led to this tragic crash.

“We urge motorists, pedestrians and train drivers alike to exercise extreme caution at all times at these crossing” concludes Minister Martins.