Karu Tanker Explosion: PCNGI Urges Caution, Condoles With Victims

The Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGI) has urged caution and extended condolences to the families of the victims of the tanker explosion on the Karu Bridge between Kugbo and Nyanya in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

A tanker explosion occurred near Karu Bridge in Abuja on Wednesday evening, leaving several people feared dead and many vehicles destroyed.

The incident is said to have involved a Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) tanker that lost control and collided with other vehicles, resulting in a catastrophic explosion.

The PCNG Initiative, in a statement, Wednesday night, urged the public to await the outcome of a thorough investigation to ascertain the exact cause of the accident

“The PCNG Initiative is deeply saddened by the tragic accident on the Karu Bridge between Kugbo and Nyanya in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Our hearts go out to the victims, their families, and all those affected by this devastating incident.

“While initial reports suggest the involvement of a Bi-Fueled Petrol Tanker, we urge the public to await the outcome of a thorough investigation to ascertain the exact cause of the accident. Preliminary accounts indicate a possible brake system failure leading to the explosion of the petrol storage tank, but it is crucial to avoid speculation until all facts are established.

“The PCNG Initiative remains committed to promoting the safe and sustainable use of CNG as a cleaner energy alternative. We will continue to work closely with relevant authorities, including the FCT Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the Federal Fire Service, and other stakeholders, to ensure that safety standards are upheld and incidents like this are prevented in the future/

“We commend the swift response of the emergency responders, including FEMA, the Nigeria Police Force, and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), who are on the ground working tirelessly to rescue victims and manage the situation,” it stated.

Witnesses described a terrifying scene as the tanker, reportedly carrying compressed natural gas (CNG) cylinders along with liquid fuel, erupted into a series of violent explosions.

The force of the blasts sent fireballs and debris soaring as high as 700 meters, with some projectiles landing nearly 900 meters away, reminiscent of major industrial disasters.

Survivors recounted their frantic attempts to escape as the fire engulfed vehicles on impact.