Petrol Tanker Explodes Near M7 Highway Exit In Durban; Driver Inured

A petrol tanker caught fire in Durban's N2 northbound on Sunday afternoon near the M7 highway exit, leaving the driver of the vehicle with minor injuries.

The official X handle, formerly known as Twitter, of Traffic South Africa shared a video of the petrol truck burning, while cars passed by the flaming truck.

Garrith Jamieson, spokesperson of ambulance service ALS Paramedics, said that the truck driver had sustained minor injuries, and added "he was stabilized on the scene before being transported to a nearby hospital for the further care that he required," IOL reported.

While Jamieson couldn't confirm the cause of the fire in the truck, he said that there will be an investigation done by the Durban Fire Department and the South African Police Services (SAPS) in this case.

Jamieson, who said there were no other vehicles involved or injuries in the accident, urged South Africans to be cautious on the roads, revealing that they have been keeping "extremely busy with multiple accidents with many being fatal accidents."

"We are noticing there are a fair amount of possible alcohol related incidents as well. Please enjoy your vacation wisely and rather have a designated driver to ensure you arrive alive at your destination," he added.

He also urged motorists to ensure their vehicles were in a good condition and to check the condition of the tires and wipers.

"Heavy rainfall is predicted for the next few days so please also take this into account before your travels," Jamieson said.

Last week, the Health Department revealed that it had deployed more than 1,540 ambulances across South Africa's major routes, strategic points and hotspots to increase the turnaround time of the Emergency Medical Services during the festive season, a period that sees heightened demand for such services.

The department urged South Africans to dial 112 and talk to call center agents to call for an ambulance in case of vehicle accidents, domestic violence, alcohol and substance abuse, and drowning.

The agents will require details, including name, phone number, address, and nearest landmark, alongside the patient's current medical status, as per the health department.

Ahead of the festive season, President Cyril Ramaphosa welcomed 1,400 new police recruits to strengthen the SAPS, noting that the new constables will ensure the safety and security of South Africans during the upcoming festive season, including Christmas Day and New Year celebrations.