A tragic incident has unfolded in Dikolini, Eastern Cape, where a school minibus carrying 13 learners was swept away by powerful floodwaters following the collapse of the Efata bridge. Rescue teams have since recovered the vehicle, but the search continues for at least ten people still missing in the aftermath of the flooding.
The 22-seater minibus, which was transporting learners from Jumba Senior Secondary School along with two adults and the driver, was overtaken by floodwaters on Monday morning. The driver had reportedly alerted the vehicle owner shortly before the incident, warning that the bridge near Efata School for the Blind and Deaf was overflowing and appeared unsafe. Moments later, the bridge gave way, leading to the vehicle’s disappearance in the rushing water.
According to reports from the scene, high water levels initially prevented emergency teams from accessing the submerged vehicle. Only the roof was visible by mid-afternoon, and it wasn’t until later that the vehicle’s windows could be seen. By the time rescue operators gained entry, the learners were no longer inside.
So far, nine bodies have been recovered, according to the OR Tambo District Mayor. The search for others continues, with divers also inspecting nearby homes where residents may have been trapped. Eyewitnesses reported hearing cries from within flooded houses as waters rose rapidly over the weekend.
The disaster has drawn national attention, prompting urgent calls for government support. The Portfolio Committee on Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment expressed condolences to the victims’ families and called on provincial authorities to act swiftly. The committee also raised concerns about the long-term impact of climate change, emphasising the need for stronger flood and drought management strategies.
Committee Chairperson Nqabisa Gantsho highlighted the importance of relocating families from flood-prone areas and ensuring children, particularly those who walk to school, are better protected from extreme weather conditions. She also urged authorities to prioritise swift assistance to those displaced and to accurately assess the number of affected individuals to deliver targeted support.
Dikolini, situated in the Mthatha West region along the R61, is among the worst-hit areas after two powerful cold fronts swept across the province over the weekend. Rescue and recovery efforts remain ongoing.
