Lives Lost, Road Blocked — R510 in Crisis

Thabazimbi/ Northam — The notorious R510 claimed two more lives this past weekend, further highlighting urgent safety concerns about the road that connects Thabazimbi, Amandelbult, and Northam.

On Sunday, 31 August 2025, around 05:00 in the morning, a head-on collision between two light motor vehicles ended in tragedy. Two people died at the scene, while a third was left critically injured. Emergency responders, including Amandelbult Fire, Northam Fire, Thaba Fire & Rescue (Thabazimbi and Northam branches), Netcare 911, Trauma Rescue, EMT District, SAPS, and traffic officials, worked tirelessly at the scene.

Pierre Loots, director of Thaba Fire & Rescue, voiced his deep concern: “Between 1 July and 31 August 2025, there have already been 38 separate accidents on the R510. This road urgently needs attention. We hope SANRAL will now prioritise completing the roadworks.”

Another Blow: Truck Crash on Monday

Less than 24 hours later, in the early hours of Monday, 1 September 2025, a truck ploughed through cement barriers on the same stretch of road, between Amandelbult and Northam.

The crash occurred around 01:00–02:00, halting traffic completely. Vehicles only began moving slowly again by 07:28, and the truck was finally cleared just before 13:00. Thankfully, no serious injuries were reported.

A Road Under Siege

The R510 has been under construction for some time to expand lanes — a project welcomed by residents frustrated with overtaking dangers. Yet, as work drags on, motorists face both chaos and tragedy.

Locals describe the R510 as one of the most dangerous roads in South Africa, particularly at night. One social media user wrote: “This road must be completed. It’s the most dangerous road, ever!”

Thaba Fire & Rescue press release extracts