Three perish in train accident 

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National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) locomotive after falling into a gorge between Mutare and Machipanda.

By Lloyd Rabaya

Three National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) staff perished in an accident between Mutare and Machipanda on Monday night after the train had a brake failure.

In a statement, NRZ said investigations are still ongoing to determine the exact cause of the tragic incident.

“Preliminary investigations suggest that the locomotive, which was pulling 14 wagons laden with nine (9) export chrome concentrates and five (5) granite blocks, may have suffered a brake failure leading to a runaway which culminated in the train failing to negotiate a sharp curve thereby falling into the gorge,” read part of the statement.

The crew members, whose identities are not disclosed until their families are informed, were trapped and could not make it to safety.

“The NRZ board, management and staff would like to express sincere condolences to the families of the hardworking, dedicated crew members who shall always be remembered by the Railways family,” the statement continued.