Scholar transport tragedy opens old 'Blackheath train-crossing wounds'
Some of the families whose children were killed when their school taxi collided with a train at the Buttskop Road level crossing in Blackheath gathered at the station for a wreath -laying memorial.
Image: FILE/ Cindy Waxa
FOR many parents, placing their children in the school transport and waving goodbye is part of their normal morning routine, but what happens when the child never comes home?
The Vanderbijlpark accident last week, which claimed the lives of 14 young children has evoked strong emotions from parents still battling the loss of a child in the same manner and those who are learning to ask the right questions when it comes to placing their children’s lives in the hands of the scholar transport system.
This year will mark the 16th anniversary of the devastating Blackheath train-crossing tragedy, which claimed the lives of 10 school children on August 25, 2010.
MEMORIAL: Crosses at Buttskop Road railway crossing in Blackheath
Image: File
The learners died when their taxi to school jumped a queue of cars waiting at a rail crossing at Buttskop Road and was hit by an oncoming train. The taxi driver survived the crash.
Sixteen years after the tragedy, Valerie Phillips, who lost her 13-year-old son Jody Philips in the crash, said the Vanderbijlpark accident opened old wounds.
An emotional Valerie said Jody would’ve celebrated his 29th birthday on 29 November, and she still keeps his lunch box in the fridge.
“On Sunday [before the Vanderbijlpark accident], it was my birthday and I am retiring after 33 years at the end of this week. It was supposed to be a happy time, but ever since the accident, it has really affected me so badly that I am in pain all over again.
Valerie Phillips speaks of the memories she has of her son, Jody Phillips.
Image: FILE/ Ross Jansen
“A mother will never get over the passing of her child, especially in a tragic accident like this - when they were ripped away from you.
“Just when you think you can move a little bit forward in life, something strikes again that triggers you. This really affected me.
“I am so emotional, and when I am like this, I just distance myself from everyone to deal with my feelings.
“I don’t want people to think ‘it’s been so many years and you are still crying?’” But they won’t understand if you never went through it - I can tell you it’s very painful.
“I have to be strong for my only son, who is 19 years old, because it is just the two of us. A year before Jody’s accident, my middle son passed on as a baby.
Western Cape Mobility Department’s Head of Communication, Muneera Allie said: “Parents should check that the operator has a valid operating licence to transport your child. Ensure the driver has a valid licence and Professional Driving Permit and make sure the vehicle is roadworthy, licensed, and safe. Never allow overloading of the vehicle. Talk to your child about their trip and listen to any concerns.”
Cape Times