By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The man who was driving the gas tanker that exploded on Christmas Eve in Boksburg has been released by police.
The 32-year-old man was taken into custody after 18 people died when gas leaked from the truck he was driving and exploded on 24 December.
He faced multiple counts of culpable homicide, negligently causing an explosion that resulted in death, and malicious damage to property.
However, he was not charged and he will not be appearing today in court.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA)said that there was no case against the driver as provincial police said there was not enough evidence against him.
The tragedy has lead to discussions on social media and in homes about safety management of transport for dangerous goods and the routes taken by drivers.
The explosion is still being investigated.
President Cyril Ramaphosa meanwhile said he was deeply saddened by the continued loss of life following the explosion of a truck near the OR Tambo Memorial Hospital.
In a statement on Monday, the President stated that the nation’s hearts go out to all those who were affected by the devastating incident.
“The President’s thoughts are with the families and friends of those who have perished in the incident and the President wishes the injured persons speedy and full recovery”.
The victims include nine hospital staff members, while patients, children and firefighters, were counted among the injured.
“While we await the outcome of investigations into this tragedy, this incident does, like so many others, call on all of us to show due care and to avoid risk when we are out on our roads which we share as a public amenity.
“The President has expressed his appreciation for the rescue and recovery efforts by government agencies and services as well as organisations such as Gift of the Givers.
“The Ekurhuleni metropolitan municipality has begun the process of relocating families whose homes have been destroyed by the blast.