Disaster Averted: Firefighters Prevent Tanker Explosion in Port Harcourt

A potential disaster was narrowly avoided in Port Harcourt after a petroleum tanker overturned along the Nkpogu Roundabout on Elekahia Road, one of the city’s busiest corridors linking the Elekahia residential area to the industrial hub of Trans-Amadi.

The incident, which occurred during the early morning rush when school children and commuters were on the road, saw the tanker fall on its side, spilling highly flammable fuel. Immediate fears of a catastrophic explosion prompted a rapid response from both the Rivers State Fire Service and the Federal Fire Service.

Swift Response Saves Lives

Firefighters quickly contained the spill, dispersing fuel vapours and securing the tanker to prevent ignition. Police and local residents assisted in traffic diversion and prevented onlookers from collecting the spilled fuel, averting a potentially deadly scenario.

Officials highlighted that past tanker-related incidents in Port Harcourt have resulted in devastating loss of life and property, underscoring the importance of prompt action.

Strengthened Fire Response in Rivers State

Recent upgrades to fire safety infrastructure in Rivers State played a critical role in the rapid containment. The Federal Government had reinforced local firefighting capacity last year by deploying additional trucks and equipment. Additionally, Governor Siminalayi Fubara has implemented reforms to modernize the state’s fire service system.

Authorities have called on residents to exercise caution along high-risk corridors and commend the collaborative efforts that prevented a major disaster.