Cow on R61 causes late-night crash near Bolotwa

A late-night collision involving a cow caused a crash on the R61 between Komani and Cofimvaba on Saturday night, raising renewed concerns about livestock wandering onto busy roads in the district.

According to information received from emergency responders, the incident happened at about 23:30 on 16 May near the Bolotwa intersection on the R61.

Initial reports indicated that two vehicles may have collided with cows on the roadway. Emergency services were urgently requested after concerns were raised that further crashes could occur because the animal was still on the road shortly after the incident.

Responders on scene later confirmed that one vehicle had collided with a cow. EMS personnel and Bolotwa SAPS attended the scene.

No official information on injuries was immediately available.

The scene was later cleared and traffic resumed.

Cows and other livestock on roads at night continue to pose a serious danger to motorists across many parts of the Eastern Cape. Poor visibility after dark often leaves drivers with very little time to react, especially on rural roads where lighting is limited.

Many collisions involving livestock happen at night, when animals are difficult to spot until vehicles are already close to them. Such crashes can cause severe vehicle damage, serious injuries, and in some cases fatalities.

Motorists travelling on the R61 and other rural routes are urged to reduce speed at night, remain alert in dark areas, and be prepared for unexpected hazards on the roadway.