The Congress of South African Trade Unions and the Food and Allied Workers Union (Fawu) are calling for the government to intervene in finding a solution to minimise road accidents. This comes after a horrifying incident last week in which 25 farm workers died.

They also want the government to step in and ban the transport of farm workers in open trucks without any safety mechanisms as well as to implement more mechanisms to ensure railway safety.

Fawu secretary-general Katishi Masemola, said: “Upgrading roads and railways is the first crisis that needs to be resolved and be implemented by our government. There are no visible railway crossing signs warning drivers of passing trains, especially at level crossings and that put the lives of the people in danger.”

Masemola said the government must implement a policy which enables the bereaved family or those involved in the accident to be compensated “because some of them lose their breadwinners”.

Cosatu spokesperson Patrick Craven said they are going to do “a serious follow up” on the case.

Transport department communications director Tiyani Rikhotso, said: “We are open for discussion if they are willing to approach us.”

Rikhotso said they are working with private companies in reducing the state of accidents and the community must participate in this process.

“It is not only the responsibility of the government – all road users must assist us. We are still investigating and waiting for the results of the accident that caused the deaths of 25 farm workers.”

 

 

Source: http://www.thenewage.co.za