)
- Two individuals suffered severe burn injuries and were rushed to the hospital
- Authorities are investigating the circumstances of the leak and explosion while concerns about safety measures arise
- Matatu driver and another person seriously injured in LPG tanker explosion along Outer Ring Road, Nairobi
In a tragic incident along Outer Ring Road, Nairobi, a matatu driver's ill-fated decision resulted in a massive LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) tanker explosion, causing significant traffic congestion and leaving two people with severe burn injuries.
Witnesses recounted the harrowing sequence of events that led to the explosion. The tanker had been attempting to cross a railway line when the driver noticed a leak and immediately exited the vehicle.
The leakage soon became more apparent, prompting people in the vicinity to move away from the potential danger.
)
)
)
A matatu driver, whose vehicle was close to the leaking tanker, became desperate to distance his vehicle from the imminent threat.
)
READ: 5 common mistakes that can be dangerous while handling gas cylinders at home
Despite warnings from those nearby, he proceeded with his plan. One witness recalled,
"There were two vehicles close to the tanker, I warned the drivers not to use ignition but one of them unfortunately ignited the vehicle that's when the explosion happened."
Witnesses urged him to push the vehicle instead, understanding the severe risk posed by the gas leakage.
The defiant driver disregarded the advice and attempted to start his vehicle using the ignition.
Nonetheless, the driver started the vehicle, leading to an immediate and devastating explosion.
)
READ: Government gives update on Embakasi fire tragedy & costly blunders
Moments after the explosion, the driver emerged from the matatu engulfed in flames, desperately seeking help from those nearby.
The explosion was described as heavy and instantaneous, shaking the surrounding area and causing widespread panic among witnesses and other motorists.
Authorities were quick to respond to the scene, confirming that two individuals sustained serious burn injuries and were rushed to the hospital for treatment.
Fire fighters also came in sight to put out the fire which had caused panic in area.
The explosion comes just four months after a similar incident occurred at Mradi, within the same area.
)
READ: EPRA issues 4 guidelines to identify counterfeit LPG gases rising in the market
This recurrence has raised concerns among local residents and authorities about the safety measures in place to prevent such catastrophic events.
Efforts are now underway to investigate the exact circumstances leading to the leak and subsequent explosion.