A 33,000-litre tanker carrying automated gas oil (diesel) overturned on the Onitsha-Awka-Enugu Expressway near the Army Gate in Onitsha, Anambra State, causing significant traffic disruption.
The accident occurred around 7:05 am on Friday as the tanker attempted to enter a filling station along the expressway. Reports indicate that the driver lost control, causing the vehicle to spill part of its content onto the road before emergency responders arrived.
Authorities cordoned off the Awka-bound lane, diverting vehicles to the Onitsha-bound lane, resulting in heavy congestion in the area.
Fire service personnel promptly arrived and sprayed chemical foam compound to prevent a fire outbreak, while security operatives worked to manage traffic. However, some residents were seen scooping spilled diesel from the gutters.
Confirming the incident, State Fire Chief Chukwudi Chiketa stated that the tanker rolled backward while attempting to discharge its content, allegedly because the driver failed to engage the handbrake. The driver, who sustained a head injury while trying to jump out, was rushed to the hospital.
Meanwhile, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has deployed personnel to the scene to ease traffic congestion, which had extended from Army Gate to the MCC axis of the expressway.
One more photo below.
Comments
Post a Comment