A quick-thinking driver of a 40,000-litre fuel tanker prevented a potential fiery disaster on Monday evening after swerving off the road to avoid a head-on collision.
Bulawayo Chief Fire Officer, Mhlangano Moyo, who was at the scene along the Bulawayo–Harare highway, said the driver’s actions likely prevented a major catastrophe. Said Moyo:
“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.
“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 rescue the driver, who sustained minor injuries, and rushed him to United Bulawayo Hospitals.
Moyo said their priority was to save lives before dealing with the fuel spill. He said:
“After rescuing the driver, we sealed a leak in one of the tanks, which posed a danger and could have contaminated the entire area.”
Moyo said that part of the road was closed and residents were warned while crews worked to contain the fuel spill. He said:
“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.”
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