Railway Safety Regulator announces preliminary findings at a level crossing occurrence between Tsantsabane and Groenwater in the Northern Cape

The Railway Safety Regulator (RSR) has released preliminary findings from its investigation into a tragic accident involving a bakkie and a Transnet train at a level crossing between Groenwater and Tsantsabane in Postmasburg, Northern Cape. The preliminary report sheds light on the crucial factors that contributed to the incident on 04 August 2024, which resulted in the loss of four lives and left two others critically injured. Transnet Freight Rail management reported that six additional passengers narrowly escaped without harm.
 
The level crossing consists of a dirt road that runs within the boundaries of a farm, with warning signage and lockable gates on either side of the level crossing.
It was reported that at the time of the accident, the bakkie was being pushed from the gate towards the level crossing by some of the passengers. It was also reported that upon hearing the train's siren, the passengers who were pushing the bakkie fled upon realizing the imminent approach of the train. The driver of the bakkie exited the vehicle and attempted to push it backward away from the level crossing, but was unable to move it in time. Subsequently, the train collided with the front of the bakkie.
 
The investigation has revealed that the motorist’s visibility at the level crossing was hindered by trees both within and outside the rail reserve. Clear visibility of approaching trains is only assured when vehicles are stationary behind the stop sign located inside the rail reserve.
 
The designated speed limit between Warrenton and Postmasburg is 80 km/h. The actual speed of the train at the time of the incident will be determined using data from the onboard logger and corroborated with video footage.
Aside from minor damage to the level crossing blocks, there were no additional infrastructure damages reported.
Transnet Freight Rail (TFR) is committed to conducting a comprehensive investigation to pinpoint the root cause of the incident. Additionally, the operator will carry out a physical assessment and a risk evaluation of the level crossing to verify the adequacy of the protective measures. Moreover, the operator will ensure a clear and mutual understanding of the associated risks and mitigation strategies between TFR and the farm owner regarding the level crossing.
 
The RSR will work in close collaboration with all involved parties to ensure the implementation of comprehensive corrective actions, aimed at bolstering safety measures and preventing future incidents.
 
“We are committed to collaborating with all stakeholders to enhance the safety of this level crossing. Our standards are designed not only to guide, but also to clarify the roles each party plays in maintaining the security of level crossings. I want to reiterate our heartfelt condolences to the families who have suffered unimaginable losses, and we extend our wishes for a swift recovery to those injured. Together, we will work diligently to prevent such tragedies in the future,” stated Mr. Mmuso Selaledi, Acting Chief Executive Officer of the RSR.

Renewed commitment to stopping crashes at level crossings and saving lives