Aid pledge for train accident families amid DNA tests

A meeting with approximately 50 family members of the 19 deceased passengers was convened with the Acting Group CEO‚ Cromet Molepo‚ and Acting DG of Transport‚ Mathabatha Mokonyama‚ and Prasa board member‚ Godfrey Maluleke‚ "as part of the ongoing oversight role by the Department of Transport into the smooth and dignified management of the processes by Prasa".

Prasa's Molepo urged the families to ensure that closely related kin or family members would avail themselves for testing.

“We would like to urge the families to have the closest next of kin to available for the DNA testing to ensure accurate results. We are aware of the trauma that the families have already endured. This is why we have provided all the necessary counselling and psychological support but we are keenly aware of the pain the families are going through.”

The department's Mokonyama assured the families that both the Minister of Transport‚ Joe Maswanganyi‚ and Deputy Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga "want Prasa to support both the injured passengers and the bereaved families‚ and ensure that the people are a priority".

Meanwhile‚ Monday alone‚ Prasa said 43 enquiries were processed at the walk-in centre‚ ranging from lost luggage to medical related enquiries and claims.