Video // Heroic Act Saves Nampally: Fuel Tanker Fire Averted Near Petrol Pump
Hyderabad, December 11: A serious accident was narrowly avoided on Wednesday afternoon when a fire erupted in a fuel tanker parked at an HP petrol pump near Ek Minar Masjid, Nampally. Timely action by a courageous elderly individual and a swift response from the fire department ensured public safety, preventing a potentially catastrophic explosion.
The incident unfolded around 2:30 PM, causing widespread panic among residents and commuters in the bustling area. Witnesses recounted that the fire began in the rear section of the tanker, which was stationed dangerously close to the petrol pump. The flames, fed by residual fuel, quickly intensified, raising fears of an explosion that could have caused immense damage.
Realizing the gravity of the situation, an elderly man on the scene sprang into action. Displaying remarkable bravery, he managed to move the tanker a safe distance from the petrol pump before firefighters arrived. His timely intervention significantly reduced the risk of the fire spreading or causing casualties.
Within minutes, two fire brigades reached the site and brought the flames under control. Their swift action averted a major disaster, as the petrol station was located in a densely populated area with heavy vehicular movement.
Traffic Disruption and Emergency Management
The fire caused temporary disruptions to traffic near Ek Minar Masjid as emergency services cordoned off the area to ensure public safety. ACP Goshamahal Traffic, Smt. Dhanalakshmi, was praised for her exemplary coordination efforts, which ensured the smooth flow of vehicles and prevented chaos during the crisis.
Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the fire. Initial reports suggest that the tanker may have had faulty wiring or inadequate maintenance. Officials are also probing whether the petrol pump complied with standard safety protocols.
Past Incidents Highlight Ongoing Safety Concerns
This is not the first time Hyderabad has witnessed such alarming incidents. Here are some notable past occurrences:
- July 2024, Malakpet Petrol Pump Fire: A fuel tanker caught fire while unloading fuel at a petrol station in Malakpet. Although no casualties were reported, the blaze disrupted local traffic for hours. Investigations revealed negligence in following safety procedures during fuel transfer.
- March 2023, Secunderabad Fuel Tanker Explosion: A tragic explosion occurred near Paradise Circle when a tanker developed a fuel leak. The blast caused injuries to two bystanders and extensive damage to nearby shops and vehicles. It was later found that the tanker was overdue for a safety inspection.
- December 2021, Bowenpally Petrol Station Fire: A fire broke out at a petrol pump in Bowenpally due to a short circuit in the tanker’s electrical system. Firefighters managed to contain the fire, but the incident highlighted serious gaps in vehicle maintenance and emergency preparedness.
- October 2020, Uppal Fuel Depot Blaze: In a more devastating incident, a fuel depot in Uppal witnessed a massive fire that took over 12 hours to control. This incident resulted in the loss of property worth crores and raised questions about the enforcement of safety regulations in storage facilities.
Need for Enhanced Safety Protocols
These incidents underscore the urgent need for strict enforcement of safety measures across petrol stations and fuel tankers. Authorities must ensure that vehicles transporting flammable materials undergo regular inspections, and petrol pumps are equipped with adequate fire safety tools. Public awareness campaigns can also play a vital role in educating citizens about the importance of vigilance and quick action during such emergencies.
By averting a major disaster in Nampally, this incident serves as a stark reminder of how collective effort and timely intervention can save lives. The bravery of the elderly bystander and the efficiency of Hyderabad’s fire department deserve special recognition.
Report by Mir Mehdi Ali Baquri SNS
