Tension gripped residents and motorists along the Awka-Enugu Expressway in Awka after a tanker conveying liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) went up in flames near the Women Development Centre at Agu Awka.
The incident, which occurred on Saturday evening, caused widespread panic and heavy traffic congestion as people fled the scene over fears of a possible explosion.
Eyewitnesses said the driver noticed thick smoke billowing from the engine compartment before the situation escalated into a full-blown fire.
The flames quickly engulfed the tanker’s head and cabin, raising concerns that the fire could spread to the gas-filled sections.
A nearby resident recounted that the fire intensified within minutes, forcing traders and passersby to abandon their activities and seek safety.
Emergency responders from the Anambra State Fire Service arrived promptly after receiving a distress call and were able to contain the blaze before it escalated into a major disaster.
Officials disclosed that preliminary investigations traced the cause of the fire to an electrical fault within the tanker.
While the engine cabin was completely destroyed, no casualties or additional property damage were recorded.
Firefighters successfully brought the situation under control and concluded operations shortly after ensuring there was no further risk.
Authorities have since urged motorists and tanker operators to regularly service their vehicles, particularly electrical components, to prevent similar incidents.
The swift response of emergency services was widely credited with averting what could have been a catastrophic explosion in the busy area.
