By OBAKENG MAJE
A 28-YEAR-OLD man said he miraculously escaped unharmed after a Phumatra bus crashed into his three-room-house in the early hours of Friday morning. The incident took place in Tamasikwa village near Revilo.
Kgotso Sekgweng alleged that the Phumatra bus that ferries school children and commuters at large, was parked on a hill next to his house by the driver a few hours before the incident.
“I was sleeping alone in my three roomed house when I heard a loud bang. Before I knew it, the walls collapsed and there was a bus in my house. I felt like I was dreaming and wished someone could wake me up because it was unbelievable.
“I would like to thank God for this incredible moment, where he protected me. I went outside to analyse what had happened. Few people who heard the bang also came through. We realised that there was no one in the bus,” Sekgweng said.
According to Sekgweng, the bus driver who was fast-asleep was surprised to hear the bad news. He said they woke him up and took him to the accident scene.
“I am not sure what might be a factor that caused the bus to roll to my house, but I suspect it might have a brake failure. So, the police were called, and a case was opened. Atleast, the company said it will take a full responsibility of what had happened,” said Sekgweng.
The Phumatra Transport Manager in Pampierstad depot, Edwin Kgoro said: “We are aware of the incident, and it is very unfortunate. However, as the company, we will take full responsibility for what happened.
“We will submit a claim to our insurance. So, by Monday, we will engage with the victim and map a way forward.”
Phumatra buses continue to be under scrutiny after several incidents that were involved in. Few months ago, the Phumatra bus that was ferrying commuters from Pampierstad to Hartswater allegedly burst into flames and exploded. Passengers were allegedly forced to escape through windows and that caused confusion.
Meanwhile, some commuters who use the Phumatra buses, but refused to be named for fear of reprisal, urge both Northern Cape and North West Provincial Traffic Police to roll enforcement plans and randomly test Phumatra buses. They alleged that most of the buses are moving coffins and they are not road worthy.
“I believe most of Phumatra buses have failed various vehicle fitness issues because they have worn tyres, poor brakes and faulty steering wheel racks. Some had no permits or had permits that had expired.”
Another commuter said: “It is absolutely appalling that Phumatra would think of transporting commuters in their buses that are patently dangerous. A bus with faulty brakes and/ or worn tyres is a potential coffin on wheels.”
The Guardian 