The R25 road heading towards Bronkhorstspruit is closed following a devastating accident involving an articulated petrol tanker.
The incident occurred around midnight when the tanker, carrying a load of petrol, swerved off the R25 and crashed into the Rietvlei River bridge in Bredell, resulting in an explosion and massive fire.
The Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) has confirmed the closure and urges motorists to use alternate routes until the scene is cleared.
According to the City of Ekurhuleni Disaster and Emergency Management Services, emergency responders arrived to find thick, dense smoke and flames engulfing the area, with the fire spreading over 40 meters south of the bridge and reaching up to 800 meters along the bridge itself.
Update: Rietvlei Petrol Spillage Contained After R25 Tanker Accident
Tragically, the remains of the driver were found outside the vehicle with severe burn injuries, confirming the fatality in this incident.
The tanker is still cooling down, which has delayed the clearance of the accident scene.
EMPD estimates that the road will remain closed until approximately 19:00.
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Traffic has been heavily affected along 9th Road and R25 leading to Sarangeti, and motorists are advised to plan their routes accordingly.
Alternative Routes: Motorists heading south can take the R21, exit at the Benoni off-ramp, proceed to 3rd Road, continue straight through the intersection, turn left onto 9th Street, and reconnect to the R25.
The cause of the accident is still under investigation, and further updates will be provided as the situation develops.
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