Nine Killed, 25 Injured in Chiredzi Level Crossing Collision

News Editor

Center News Hub

Chiredzi– A tragic collision between a passenger train and a bus at a level crossing in Chiredzi on Tuesday morning has claimed nine lives and left 25 others injured, the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) has confirmed.

According to a statement issued by NRZ Public Affairs and Stakeholder Relations Manager, Andrew Kunambura, the accident occurred at approximately 0700 hours when a train traveling from Triangle to the NRZ Lundi siding, struck a bus at the crossing.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the bus driver failed to observe level crossing regulations, which require all motorists to stop and check for oncoming trains before proceeding.

The deceased include seven adults and two minors, all of whom were passengers aboard the bus and died at the scene.

Twenty-five additional passengers sustained injuries and have been transported to a local hospital, where they are currently receiving medical treatment.

Emergency services, including police, ambulance crews, and the fire brigade, were deployed to the site managing an active rescue operation.

 NRZ expressed its deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives and wished a swift recovery to the injured.

“We urge all motorists to strictly observe level crossing regulations to avoid further loss of life and injuries,” Kunambura said in the statement. “Further updates will be shared through our official channels as verified details emerge.”

The incident brings to the fore the critical importance of road and rail safety, particularly at unguarded or poorly marked level crossings in rural areas.

 Authorities have called for heightened vigilance among drivers as investigations continue.