Danger averted as diesel-laden tanker snaps on Toyota bridge

A fallen tanker on the bridge leading to Airport Road, Lagos yesterday. PHOTO: BRIGHT AZUH

What could have been a major disaster was yesterday averted when a tanker loaded with Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) belonging to Total almost fell while climbing the bridge on Apapa-Oshodi expressway at Toyota bus-stop towards Airport Road.

The tanker was negotiating to climb the bridge when it suddenly snapped and began to slip backwards following a mechanical failure that was caused by gas cut from the truck.

While the tanker lay on its belly blocking the entire bridge, the swift response of officials of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) Response Unit (LRU) and the Nigerian Police Force, who immediately cordoned off the scene, prevented hoodlums from scooping diesel.

Also, the usual traffic jam that would have stretched to Iyana-Isolo and towards Cele Bus Stop was promptly managed, especially with few cars on the road due to the festive season. Vehicles going to Airport Road were directed to go through Oshodi to Anthony to make a turn or advised to make a detour at Iyana-Isolo Bridge to negotiate to airport road.

The incident occurred around 4:00p.m. and content of the truck was not evacuated until 6:10p.m. when another tanker was brought in from the depot in Apapa. Normalcy however returned to the road around 8:30p.m. when the tanker was eventually removed from the bridge.

Commending the driver simply called Fola for his expertise, the LASTMA Sector Commander at the scene, Mr. I.T. Kadiri, said no fire or death was recorded, adding that vehicular movement was diverted to ease traffic. He advised vehicle owners to always keep their vehicles in shape to meet minimum safety standards.