A quick move by a petroleum tanker driver has averted a serious fire tragedy at Rwika shopping centre after the tanker he was driving burst into flames at 7.00am.
James Mugo who was offloading petrol at the centre narrated how he noticed fire coming from the lower part of the tanker and he quickly drove the burning vehicle about 100 metres away from the centre.
“When I noticed fire coming from the tank, I tried to disconnect the pipes to the tank in vain then I decided to drive the burning tanker away from the shops and residential houses,” said Mugo.
Mugo, who had ferried the fuel from Nairobi, drove the tanker away from the shops to a solitary place before escaping from the tanker which was reduced to its bare frame.
An eye witness, Lucy Njiru said she heard a loud bang followed by smoke and fire from the tanker adding that she tried to make emergency calls to police.
“We appreciate the quick move by the police and the fire brigade after distress calls from the residents which helped to put out the fire which had started spreading in the nearby bush,” she added.
Area Chief, Jane Njoki Kaina said she responded immediately after being alerted of the incident and through efforts of police from Gacoka and Embu and the fire brigade were able to put off the fire.
While appreciating the quick action of the driver for driving the burning tanker away from shops and residential houses, she noted there were no casualties or injuries.
She also appreciated the residents for keeping away from the burning tanker.
By Kimani Tirus
