Sikhumbuzo Moyo, Zimpapers Senior Reporter 

Authorities on Monday have issued stern warnings to residents and motorists near Mahatshula suburb in Bulawayo after a petrol tanker overturned, carrying 40 000 litres of fuel, raising fears of a possible explosion.

Speaking from the crash scene, Mrs Tsvagai Fikile Marovatsanga, Director for Bulawayo Metropolitan in the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works and chairperson of the city’s Civil Protection Committee, said the operation to recover the tanker is extremely hazardous.

“Yes, we have a tanker that was coming from Harare and it overturned about 15 kilometres from the CBD,” Mrs Marovatsanga said.

“We are trying to mobilize all the necessary resources to get it upright safely so that it doesn’t explode.”

She confirmed that a team of experts has been assembled, including personnel from ZERA, EMA, the Bulawayo Fire Brigade, and engineers tasked with ensuring safety during the decanting operation.

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Mrs Marovatsanga warned of the serious risk to nearby residents.

“It is very unsafe. In case the truck shakes, it could trigger an explosion. We are taking every necessary precaution and our engineers are overseeing the process to minimise risk.”

Authorities have already alerted residents in the vicinity. “We called Enoch, who is in charge of this area, and he is alerting the residents to stay safe,” she added.

Mrs Marovatsanga urged residents to remain at a safe distance until the tanker is secured.