Gas explosion turns car into fireball in Bulawayo

Bulawayo was rocked by another terrifying gas explosion on Monday night when a car burst into flames near the Amakhosi Cultural Centre, reducing the vehicle to a charred shell and raising fresh concerns about the growing menace of poorly handled gas cylinders in the city.

The incident, which occurred near the robot-controlled intersection along Old Falls Road, involved a driver who had just refilled a gas cylinder in the city centre. According to sources, the gas tank began leaking during the journey, filling the vehicle with the pungent smell of liquefied petroleum gas.

Witnesses say the driver, sensing danger, pulled over to the side of the road. But the moment he attempted to restart the vehicle, disaster struck. A massive explosion ripped through the car, sending flames and debris flying in all directions  -  a scene described by onlookers as something straight out of an action movie.

Bulawayo Chief Fire Officer Mhlangano Moyo confirmed the incident and pointed to a likely cause. "It's believed the gas tank wasn't properly sealed. Static electricity likely ignited the leaking gas when he tried to start the car," Moyo said. Fortunately, the driver managed to escape with minor injuries, but the car was completely destroyed.

This latest explosion follows a similar incident just weeks ago in Nkulumane 12, where a Honda Fit was obliterated after an illegally sold gas cylinder detonated at Manyenziwe Shopping Centre. That explosion also prompted warnings from emergency services about the dangers of unregulated gas distribution and poor safety practices.

The rise in gas-related accidents in Bulawayo has sparked alarm among residents and calls for tighter regulation of gas suppliers, better public education on safe handling, and harsher penalties for illegal gas sales.

"How many more cars must go up in flames before authorities act decisively?" one local resident asked at the scene. "People are playing with fire, literally."

With gas now widely used for cooking and heating amid persistent electricity shortages, authorities are urging residents to inspect their gas cylinders thoroughly, ensure they are properly sealed, and buy only from reputable dealers.

As the city counts the cost of yet another fiery scare, one message remains clear: Bulawayo must take gas safety seriously  -  or risk more lives and livelihoods going up in smoke.