Tanker fire kills driver in Mahbubnagar road accident
Hyderabad: A deadly Mahbubnagar road accident claimed one life when an ethanol tanker caught fire after a collision with a lorry on National Highway 167 near Pilligundu. The impact triggered a sudden blaze, and the tanker driver could not step out before the fire spread.
Tanker erupts in flames after collision
Police said the lorry was travelling towards Hyderabad. As it approached Pilligundu, it crashed into the rear of the tanker. The spark from the impact ignited the ethanol load. Flames rose quickly and blocked both sides of the highway. Drivers of nearby vehicles stopped their vehicles and moved to safety.
Locals rushed to the spot. They rescued the lorry driver, who suffered injuries but remained conscious. However, they could not reach the tanker driver because the fire grew rapidly. The tanker was fully ablaze by the time emergency teams arrived.
Firefighters battle blaze for several hours
Fire stations in Mahbubnagar and Jadcherla sent three fire engines to the location. Firefighters used foam and special hoses to bring the flames down. They worked for more than three hours to stop the fire from spreading to other vehicles or nearby fields. Officials said ethanol burns quickly and increases the risk of fresh flare-ups, so the team acted with caution.
The accident stopped traffic on the busy highway for nearly four hours. Police diverted vehicles through a service road. Travellers waited in long queues as crews cleared debris and cooled the stretch.
Police begin detailed investigation
Investigators examined skid marks and vehicle damage. They are checking CCTV footage from nearby establishments to confirm the exact sequence of events. Early observations suggest that speed and sudden braking may have contributed to the crash. Officers will confirm the cause after reviewing technical reports.
Officials also checked whether the tanker followed all safety norms for transporting ethanol. Police reminded transport operators to follow speed limits and ensure proper handling of hazardous materials, especially during night travel.
About The Author
