LAGOS NOVEMBER 12TH (NEWSRANGERS)-The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has confirmed that 17 passengers, including a driver, were rescued after a Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered commercial bus exploded and burst into flames along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.
One male passenger sustained severe burn injuries in the incident, which occurred at Berger Bus Stop along the Lagos-bound section of the expressway.
According to a statement issued by LASTMA’s Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department, Adebayo Taofiq, the fully loaded Toyota Hiace bus, with registration number EKY 798 YK, caught fire following a reported gas explosion.
Taofiq said that the 18 occupants were travelling from the Mowe-Ibafo axis towards Lagos when the vehicle suddenly erupted into flames, triggering panic among passengers and other motorists.
LASTMA said its personnel swiftly mobilised to the scene and rescued 17 occupants, including the driver, without injuries.
However, one male passenger seated at the rear section of the vehicle sustained severe burn injuries during the inferno.
He was immediately evacuated by LASTMA officials and rushed to the Lagos State Trauma and Emergency Centre, Toll Gate, for urgent medical attention.
Officers of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service subsequently deployed firefighting equipment to extinguish the flames and prevent the fire from spreading further.
Personnel of the Ojodu Police Division also provided security support, maintained law and order, and secured the scene throughout the rescue and firefighting operations.
Commending the emergency responders, LASTMA General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, praised the agency’s personnel for their courage, professionalism and swift intervention, which helped save 17 lives.
Bakare-Oki said the incident highlighted the importance of rapid emergency response, effective collaboration among emergency agencies and the deployment of adequately trained personnel in managing road emergencies.
He also urged commercial transport operators, particularly those using CNG-powered vehicles, to prioritise regular professional inspections, comply strictly with safety standards and ensure proper maintenance of their vehicles’ gas storage and delivery systems.
The LASTMA boss reiterated the agency’s commitment to protecting lives, ensuring smooth traffic movement and strengthening collaboration with emergency response agencies across Lagos State.
He also commended the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service and the Nigeria Police Force for their support during the rescue operation.
SaharaReporters
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