A truck driver has been killed and another injured after two trucks collided on the N1 between Winburg and Ventersburg in the Free State, with the crash also resulting in a chemical spill.
The serious collision has prompted authorities to prepare for the closure of the N1 while emergency teams deal with the spilled substance and secure the crash scene.
According to a road traffic alert issued by Mr SS Towa, chairperson of RIMS Free State, one driver sustained fatal injuries at the scene, while the second driver suffered minor injuries.
Chemical spill prompts 300m safety warning
The collision resulted in a chemical spillage, with motorists and members of the public warned to stay at least 300 metres away from the spill.
The public is urged not to approach the crash scene or attempt to inspect the spilled substance.
Read | N1 CLOSED Between Kroonstad and Ventersburg After Hazardous Materials Truck Overturns
For a liquid spill, an initial isolation distance of 50 metres in all directions is advised. In the case of a large spill, an initial downwind evacuation distance of at least 300 metres may be required.
The type of chemical involved has not yet been confirmed.
N1 closure and diversion
Law enforcement is preparing to close the N1 from the Kroonstad side and at the Winburg/Theunissen Bridge.
Motorists are being instructed to follow the official diversion route via the R708 towards Theunissen.
Truckers travelling between Gauteng and the Free State should approach the area with caution and be prepared for delays as emergency services, traffic authorities and recovery teams work at the scene.
Motorists are urged to obey all instructions from traffic officials and avoid stopping near the crash or spill area.
The circumstances leading to the collision have not yet been confirmed.
The incident remains developing, with further updates expected as authorities establish more details about the crash, the chemical spill and the road closure.
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