Dear Ms Creecy

I trust this message finds you well. I am writing to you in the wake of a tragic incident that occurred recently on the N12 near Elands Road in the Kokosi-Wedela area in Merafong. This devastating accident claimed the lives of twelve young pupils and their transport driver, who were all burnt beyond recognition after their vehicle was struck from behind by a bakkie, causing it to overturn and burst into flames. Eleven of the deceased were from Rocklands Primary School and one was from Laërskool Blyvooruitsig in Carletonville. This tragedy has left our community reeling, with profound sorrow for the families affected and deep concern for the seven other pupils who were injured and rushed to the hospital.

As the new Minister of Transport, your leadership and support are crucial in addressing the critical issue of school transport safety. This incident highlights the urgent need for a comprehensive National School Transport Policy. Such a policy would ensure standardized safety measures, mandatory driver safety training, regular vehicle maintenance checks, and the use of appropriate restraints for all child passengers.

At Wheel Well, we have been ardent advocates for child transport safety and have continuously worked towards this goal. Attached to this email is a blog we wrote, detailing our motivations and the pressing need for a National School Transport Policy. The implementation of this policy could prevent future tragedies and safeguard the lives of our children.

Furthermore, we appeal for your support of NGOs within your sector. Organizations like ours are dedicated to promoting safety and well-being, but our efforts can only go so far without robust backing from government authorities. Your support can amplify our initiatives, facilitate collaboration, and drive the necessary changes to create a safer transport environment for all.

We believe that with your esteemed support, we can make significant strides in improving school transport safety and ensuring that such heartbreaking incidents do not recur. We are eager to work together with your office to advocate for and develop policies that prioritize the safety of our nation's children.

Thank you for your attention to this critical matter. We look forward to the possibility of collaborating with your ministry to protect and enhance the safety of scholar transport.

Sincerely,
Peggie Mars