Story by Fungai Jachi
AN emotional send-off service was held in Chiredzi on Friday for the nine people who lost their lives in Tuesday’s bus-train collision in Triangle, with bereaved families expressing gratitude for government support after the tragedy was declared a national disaster.
Family members, friends, government officials and community leaders gathered to pay their final respects to the victims, whose deaths have left the district in mourning.
Among those who perished were two infants and two Advanced Level students who were travelling to school when the accident occurred.
The sombre ceremony reflected the profound grief still gripping families and the wider community as they struggle to come to terms with the loss of lives cut short.
Following the tragedy, President Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa declared the accident a national disaster, paving the way for government assistance, including the covering of funeral expenses.
Relatives of the deceased said the intervention had eased the financial burden during a difficult period.
“It was a relief to have government step in because we had no money to fund the funeral,” relative, Mr Decent Matambudze said.
“Our President is the best because he has shown us love and kindness during this difficult time,” relative, Mr Amious Chinguwo said.
Local legislators who attended the service called for greater road safety and accountability following the fatal collision.
“It is unfortunate. We hope that drivers will be more careful on the road to avoid such accidents,” Chiredzi West legislator, Honourable Darlington Chiwa said.
“After we bury the deceased, we want justice to be served for these victims. Someone should be held accountable,” Chiredzi North MP, Honourable Roy Bhila said.
Government officials also commended the swift emergency response that followed the accident.
“We are grateful that the response at the accident scene came swiftly. It shows what we can do when we work together. Therefore, let us continue to unite in ensuring that we assist one another in times of trouble,” Assistant District Development Coordinator for Chiredzi, Mrs Patience Mawarire said.
Following the service, the bodies of the deceased were taken to their respective homes for burial as families and communities prepared to lay their loved ones to rest.
The tragedy has renewed calls for enhanced road safety measures and accountability as authorities continue investigations into the circumstances surrounding the fatal collision.
