Detawu: Rigorous inspections needed amid spate of deadly KZN bus crashes
A union representing transport workers has called on long-distance bus operators to carry out more rigorous safety checks and inspections on their fleet of vehicles.
The Democratised Transport Logistics and Allied Workers Union (Detawu) made the comments in the wake of two bus crashes in KwaZulu-Natal in recent weeks, one of which claimed the lives of 10 people near the Tugela River.
Fifty-eight people were injured in a single-vehicle collision in Ixopo on Monday.
The causes of both crashes are being investigated.
The union's Nontembeko Luzipo says they're making an appeal to the Department of Transport on behalf of workers in the long-distance bus industry.
"We are calling for tougher actions from the department so that they make sure that these buses are well serviced and these buses are roadworthy.
"Our fear is going into the peak season and the interest of the employer is to make a profit. If those steps are not taken obviously with the buses that have mechanical faults and drivers that do not get enough rest, they are forced to take these buses as tired as they are."
