TAZARA Drivers Perish in Locomotive Crash
Two TAZARA Drivers Killed in Locomotive Accident
(Mbozi, Tanzania – ZANIS) — Tragedy struck in the early hours of Monday when two drivers of the Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA) lost their lives in a fatal accident involving two locomotives. The locomotives derailed and overturned at Bridge number 262, situated in Mbozi District, Songwe Region of Tanzania.
In an official statement released to the media, TAZARA Head of Public Relations, Mr. Conrad Simuchile, confirmed the incident and expressed the authority’s profound sorrow over the loss of the two employees. “TAZARA deeply regrets the unfortunate accident and the tragic loss of our dedicated drivers,” Mr. Simuchile said.
According to the statement, the two locomotives involved in the accident were not in operation for regular transport services but were instead being transferred from Chozi, located in Zambia, to the Mbeya Workshop in Tanzania for maintenance and repair. The locomotives were reportedly defective, and it remains unclear what exactly led to the derailment.
Mr. Simuchile further stated that investigations are currently underway to determine the cause of the accident. He assured the public and the families of the deceased that TAZARA is committed to ensuring such incidents are thoroughly reviewed and that preventive measures will be put in place to enhance safety.
The names of the deceased drivers have not yet been released, pending notification of their next of kin. Meanwhile, TAZARA has extended its condolences to the bereaved families and pledged to support them during this difficult time.
Authorities in both Tanzania and Zambia are expected to collaborate in the investigation, given the cross-border nature of the railway and the movement of the locomotives.
