Bongani Ndlovu
Sikhumbuzo Moyo, Zimpapers Senior Reporter
DANGER was narrowly avoided on Monday evening near Mahatshula, some 15km from Bulawayo, when a 40 000-litre fuel tanker veered off the road after the driver took evasive action to avoid a head-on collision on Sunday afternoon.
Emergency services are decanting the fuel safely.
Bulawayo Chief Fire Officer, Mr Mhlangano Moyo, who was at the scene along the Bulawayo–Harare highway on Monday, said the driver’s actions prevented what could have been a major catastrophe.
“The driver was engaging in defensive driving as he approached the bridge and noticed an oncoming truck. To avoid a head-on collision, he swerved to the left. Unfortunately, due to heavy rains, the truck slid into a ditch,” said Mr Moyo.
“Considering the load, a head-on collision involving more than 40 000 litres of petrol could have resulted in a major disaster.”
Emergency teams managed to extricate the driver, who sustained minor injuries, and rushed him to United Bulawayo Hospitals. Mr Moyo said their priority was to save life before containing the fuel spill.
“After rescuing the driver, we sealed a leak in one of the tanks, which posed a serious danger and could have contaminated the entire area,” he said.
Mr Moyo said part of the road was closed and residents warned as crews worked to contain the fuel.
“We successfully sealed the leak and mobilised other stakeholders, including ZERA. A crane was secured to raise the truck from the ditch. So far, the situation is under control. Although we lost about 3 000 to 4 000 litres from the 40 000-litre load, the spill was successfully contained. We carried out damming and treated the fuel with assistance from the EMA team,” said Mr Moyo.
Online Reporter