Johnson Progress

The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) has expressed deep concern over a significant increase in rail level crossing accidents and incidents involving pedestrians struck by trains.

According to NRZ’s mid-year report, 13 level crossing accidents were recorded between January and June this year, resulting in 13 injuries.

During the same period, 10 pedestrians were hit by trains while walking on or near the tracks, leading to four deaths and six serious injuries.

“If the trend of accidents recorded so far this year continues, it means last year’s figures would be significantly surpassed,” NRZ warned in a statement.

In 2024, Zimbabwe recorded 13 level crossing accidents in total, with one death and 26 injuries.

Additionally, five people were killed and eight injured after being struck by trains last year.

NRZ emphasized that these statistics paint a grim picture and underscore the need for motorists and pedestrians to exercise extreme caution on railway tracks.

“Safety on the railway tracks is a shared responsibility and we urge all road users to adhere to traffic regulations at level crossings by stopping, looking out for trains, and listening for warning signals,” NRZ said.

The railway operator urged motorists to be patient at level crossings, saying, “A few moments of waiting can save a lifetime of regret.”

NRZ also appealed to pedestrians to avoid walking on or along railway tracks and to use designated footbridges and crossing points whenever possible.

“People should cross railway tracks only after checking carefully that no trains are approaching. Your life is worth more than a shortcut,” NRZ stressed.

Apart from the tragic loss of life and life-changing injuries, these accidents have a heavy toll on railway operations.

After an incident, train crews are forced to stop and wait for police to attend the scene, leading to delays and disruptions on critical rail corridors.