Commuters, Traders Scamper for Safety as Gas Tanker Spills Content Near Onitsha Market

By Praise Chinecherem

There was pandemonium at New Tarzan area of Nkpor, Onitsha, Anambra State following gas leakage from an articulated vehicle conveying cooking gas along the Onitsha-Awka road.

The tanker was said to have spilled its content along the road, near building materials market.

The incident which occurred around 10am, caused heavy traffic jam, with motorists plying the axis trapped in the gridlock while traders whose shop were located around the area fled for safety.

Commuters were compelled to trek long distances as the area was cordoned off to avoid fire outbreak, while men of the Fire Service were on standby to forestall any calamity.

Reacting, Sector Commander, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Adeoye Irelewuyi advised motorists to use alternative routes.

He said, “The incident happened at a location called “SISTER” which is between building materials and Tarzan junction where our traffic control personnels are controlling traffic and also observing the suitation.

“FRSC personnels From RS5.3 Nteje Unit Command visited the scene of the leaking gas and the road is completely blocked preventing vehicular movement from both lanes to avoid sudden fire out break.

“The registration number of the tanker was not seen, however, there’s an inscription on the tanker(Takl-183). The driver is carrying cooking gas which started leaking and decided to park the truck at that location.

“Vehicles other than tankers and trailers diverts from tow gate drive against traffic to building material junction towards Ogbunike to Old road.
“Meanwhile, the gas vapour is still leaking while the fire Service personnel are also on ground neutralizing the area.”