Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii has called for oil tankers to be rerouted away from the Eldoret central business district to prevent future accidents. This follows a recent fire accident that resulted in three fatalities and 22 injuries. The incident occurred when an oil tanker collided with another vehicle, causing a fire that claimed two lives and injured many others. Governor Bii stated that they are working with the Kenya National Highways Authority to enforce the directive.
The accident occurred at Paul Boit along the Eldoret-Malava highway, involving a small tanker carrying petrol and diesel. According to Uasin Gishu county police boss Wilberforce Sicharani, the lorry lost control and crashed on the road, prompting people to rush and scoop fuel. The commotion led to the tanker bursting into flames, causing two deaths and numerous injuries. It is suspected that one of the people may have touched the battery in the lorry, sparking the fire.
Governor Bii visited the injured victims at the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, where eleven patients are being treated in the ICU. Senior Clinical Services Doctor Andrew Wandera reported that seven of the victims have burns covering more than 25 percent of their bodies, while the rest have facial and body burns. The hospital has adequate supplies and medical staff working to help the victims recover quickly.
To prevent similar accidents, Governor Bii announced that oil tankers will be directed to use the Eldoret Southern Bypass instead of the highway through the city centre. He emphasized that many oil ferrying lorries still pass through the city, posing a danger to residents. The governor also cautioned the public against rushing to areas where such accidents occur, citing the danger of fire.
The governor expressed regret to the families affected by the tragedy and praised the Kenya Red Cross for their quick response in ensuring victims were taken to hospital promptly. He also noted that humanitarian assistance has been coordinated for the families affected. Residents have also requested government intervention to stop illegal oil syphoning along the route.
According to Governor Bii, most of the injured victims had serious burns, and he reiterated the importance of cautioning the public against rushing to accident scenes. The governor's directive aims to minimize the risks associated with oil tankers passing through the Eldoret CBD.
The incident has highlighted the need for improved safety measures and enforcement of regulations regarding oil tanker operations in the region. Governor Bii's administration is taking steps to address these concerns and prevent future accidents.
Key points
- Governor Jonathan Bii urges oil tankers to use alternative routes to avoid Eldoret CBD.
