By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The N1 north and south between Botha Avenue and the R21 flying saucer intersection in Pretoria was closed on Monday evening after a petrol tanker caught fire.
It is reported that a petrol tanker overturned and burst into flames.
Tshwane Emergency Services Department spokesperson Charles Mabaso said firefighters could see the smoke and flames from several kilometres away as they made their way to the scene just after 18:30. They could also hear multiple explosions.
“Upon arrival at the scene, firefighters found a tanker that was lying on its side and engulfed by fire. They, together with law enforcement agencies and other emergency medical services, immediately closed off the N1, direction south and north, between Botha Avenue and the R21/N1 Flying Saucer Interchange.”
Mabaso added that “human remains believed to be of the driver” were found in the tanker’s cab.
He said, the fire was subsequently extinguished once the fire in the ruptured and badly damaged tank was under control. The tanker was reported to have been carrying 40 000 litres of 93 octane petrol at the time of the accident.
Videos shared on social media show that the burning tanker truck lying across all the lanes on the northbound carriageway.
Please note
N1 North and South closed between Botha and R21.
Accident on N1 North just after Botha
Petrol tanker on fire
Services on scene pic.twitter.com/LJ5qzJMIQb— ?SA911 (@JustdoitZee) June 5, 2023
The N1 North between Botha Avenue and the R21 flying saucer intersection was closed until further notice tonight for mop up operations once the fire has been extinguished.