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Train carrying 450k litres of diesel crashes at Mpopoma Station
2 hrs ago |
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A goods train carrying 450 000 litres of diesel from Mozambique was involved in an accident at Mpopoma Station in Bulawayo on Saturday morning after it reportedly gained momentum while parked overnight.
Bulawayo Chief Fire Officer Mr Mhlangano Moyo confirmed the incident, describing it as a "runaway accident" that occurred when the parked train rolled on its own and collided with a stationary locomotive.
"The train ran out of fuel and was left parked overnight. Unfortunately, it gained momentum after the brakes lost power and went straight into another parked locomotive, resulting in the accident. This occurred at the Mpopoma Diesel Shed," said Mr Moyo.
He said emergency crews were immediately dispatched to the scene to contain the situation and prevent possible spillage or fire.
"We are decanting the fuel and pushing the locomotives apart. The process is ongoing and will take some time. The locomotive was pulling about 450 000 litres of diesel," he added.
No injuries were reported, although the collision caused minor structural damage to one of the locomotives. Authorities are conducting investigations to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the incident and to assess whether safety procedures were followed.
The train was reportedly en route from Mozambique, transporting diesel for local distribution. Officials say environmental and safety teams will remain on site until all the fuel is safely secured.
Bulawayo Chief Fire Officer Mr Mhlangano Moyo confirmed the incident, describing it as a "runaway accident" that occurred when the parked train rolled on its own and collided with a stationary locomotive.
"The train ran out of fuel and was left parked overnight. Unfortunately, it gained momentum after the brakes lost power and went straight into another parked locomotive, resulting in the accident. This occurred at the Mpopoma Diesel Shed," said Mr Moyo.
He said emergency crews were immediately dispatched to the scene to contain the situation and prevent possible spillage or fire.
"We are decanting the fuel and pushing the locomotives apart. The process is ongoing and will take some time. The locomotive was pulling about 450 000 litres of diesel," he added.
No injuries were reported, although the collision caused minor structural damage to one of the locomotives. Authorities are conducting investigations to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the incident and to assess whether safety procedures were followed.
The train was reportedly en route from Mozambique, transporting diesel for local distribution. Officials say environmental and safety teams will remain on site until all the fuel is safely secured.
Source - B-Metro
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