Zambia: A tragic accident on Kazungula Road near Victoria Falls on Wednesday evening claimed one life and left five others injured after a collision involving a vehicle and an elephant. The devastating incident occurred approximately 40 kilometres from Victoria Falls City, stirring concern among both residents and travelers who frequent the busy route.
According to reports cited by Zim News Guide, the collision involved a Toyota Isis, which was travelling towards Victoria Falls City. The driver reportedly attempted to overtake a stationary vehicle that had its hazard lights flashing, unaware of the impending danger just ahead — a sub-adult female elephant was on the road.
Eyewitnesses suggest that the stationary vehicle may have been warning oncoming traffic about the elephant’s presence, but in a fatal miscalculation, the driver of the Toyota Isis proceeded to overtake without realizing the reason for the hazards. As a result, the vehicle struck the elephant, leading to a catastrophic impact.
One person died on the scene, and five others sustained varying degrees of injuries. Emergency services quickly responded, and the injured individuals were transported to a nearby hospital for urgent medical treatment. Their current conditions have not been fully disclosed.
The elephant involved, described as a sub-adult female, also suffered fatal injuries during the crash, highlighting the ongoing dangers of human-wildlife conflicts in areas bordering game parks and wildlife corridors.
Authorities are urging drivers along the Kazungula Road and other wildlife-rich areas to exercise heightened caution, particularly during the evening and night hours when wildlife movements are more common. Drivers are reminded to heed warning signs, flashing hazards from other vehicles, and to maintain a vigilant watch for any obstacles — including animals — that may be on or near the roadway.
Victoria Falls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracts thousands of visitors each year, many of whom traverse routes that cut through wildlife habitats.
Calls for enhanced road signage, better lighting, and possibly fencing in certain high-risk areas have intensified following the accident. Conservation groups have also emphasized the need for public education campaigns to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
As investigations into the incident continue, the community mourns the loss of life and reflects on the urgent need for strategies that protect both people and wildlife sharing these vital spaces.
Credit: Zim News Guide.
