Online Reporter
Bongani Ndlovu, Deputy Echo Editor
A goods train carrying 450 000 litres of diesel from Mozambique was involved in an accident at Mpopoma Station in Bulawayo on Saturday morning, after it reportedly gained momentum while parked overnight.
Bulawayo Chief Fire Officer Mr Mhlangano Moyo confirmed the incident, describing it as a “runaway accident.”
He said the train had run out of fuel and was left parked, but later rolled on its own after the brakes lost power, eventually colliding with a parked locomotive at the station.
“The train ran out of fuel and was left parked overnight. Unfortunately, it gained momentum after the brakes lost power and went straight into another parked locomotive, resulting in the accident. This occurred at Mpopoma Diesel shed,” said Mr Moyo.
He said emergency crews were on the scene working to decant the remaining fuel and prevent possible spillage or fire.
“We are decanting the fuel and pushing the locomotives apart. The process is ongoing and will take some time. The locomotive was pulling about 450 000 litres of diesel,” he said.
No injuries were reported, and investigations are underway to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
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