Lagos escapes major inferno as gas tanker leak sparks fire — LASTMA

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, LASTMA, in collaboration with the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, on Wednesday, averted what could have turned into a major fire disaster after a leaking mini gas tanker caught fire at the Owode Elede area along Ikorodu Road.

The incident occurred when a six-tyre gas tanker developed a mechanical fault while in transit at the Owode Elede corridor inward Ikorodu.

According to LASTMA, emergency responders discovered a leakage of compressed gas while assessing the faulty vehicle. The leaked gas later ignited, triggering a fire around the tanker.

The agency said its Rescue and Recovery Team quickly mobilised to the scene alongside personnel of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service to contain the situation.

It explained that the coordinated emergency response prevented the fire from spreading into what could have become a major inferno capable of endangering lives, destroying property and damaging critical road infrastructure.

To ensure that traffic was not disrupted during the emergency operation, LASTMA operatives created an alternative route by using one serviceable lane together with the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) corridor to manage the flow of vehicles.

“To minimise traffic disruption and maintain seamless vehicular movement within the corridor, LASTMA operatives strategically created an alternative passage by utilising one serviceable lane in conjunction with the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) corridor for controlled traffic management,” the statement said.

The agency said the arrangement ensured that traffic along the affected corridor remained orderly and moved freely despite the ongoing rescue and firefighting operation.

Speaking on the incident, the General Manager of LASTMA commended the swift response and cooperation among all emergency responders, saying their prompt intervention was crucial in preventing a more serious disaster.

He also urged motorists to remain cautious on the roads, obey traffic regulations and cooperate fully with emergency personnel whenever incidents occur.

LASTMA reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property across the state, assuring residents that it would continue to ensure free traffic movement while providing prompt emergency response services across Lagos State’s road network.