Mapleton train collision

On 27 July 1927, a catastrophic head-on train collision occurred on the single-track railway line between Durban and Johannesburg, South Africa, near Roodekop in Germiston. The accident involved a southbound goods train and a northbound passenger train.

Collision
The collision was primarily attributed to a critical error made by the driver of the southbound goods train departing from Roodekop. The driver, carrying the staff which authorised him to travel only as far as a newly added side track, apparently forgot to wait there for the northbound train from Durban. This oversight led to both trains being on the same track simultaneously, resulting in a devastating collision.

Casualties
The collision had tragic consequences. A total of 29 people lost their lives, with some succumbing to exposure to the harsh winter weather while waiting for rescue teams to arrive. Additionally, 54 individuals sustained injuries of varying severity.

Locomotives Involved
One of the locomotives involved in the collision was the SAR A Class 4-8-2T No. 196, manufactured by Dubs & Co. (Dubs No. 3819).