Metrorail Gauteng train services are running as normal following an incident that left a male commuter in his 50’s dead in Robinson station on Monday morning.
According to a statement issued by the Metrorail department, the man fell while trying to board from a moving train where he suffered major injuries and a couple of seconds later, another train came and smashed his body into pieces.
“Initially the person was suspected to have committed suicide until an eye witness came forth with details of what transpired”, said Metrorail Gauteng Spokesperson Lillian Mofokeng in a statement.
The incident took place around 4:30 am and that resulted in hundreds of commuters being late for work as the train service was only back to its normal schedule at 7:45.
According to Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (Prasa), the trains have struck over 350 people during a period of 2015 to 2016, while in motion.
Metrorail management would like to send their condolences to the family of the deceased and to also remind all commuters and the community at large to refrain from getting off and boarding trains when they are in motion.
Tips on how you can keep yourself safe on railways:
Always stop, look both ways, and listen for trains before crossing the tracks.
Wait at least 5 meters behind the stop line when waiting for a train to pass.
Never bike on railroad tracks.
Look for flashing headlights and listen for warning bells and horns.
