One Killed as Fuel Tanker, Lorry Collide on Nairobi Southern Bypass
A fuel tanker and a lorry collided on Nairobi’s Southern Bypass on Saturday, 24 January, causing a major fire that killed one driver, injured another, and forced the closure of the highway.
The crash occurred near the Carnivore Restaurant and Wilson Airport. According to witnesses, a lorry transporting flour had stalled on the climbing lane of the bypass. As traffic slowed, a fuel tanker attempted to pass the stationary vehicle, struck the pavement, and lost control before crashing into a bridge.
The impact caused the tanker to burst into flames, sending thick black smoke across the dual carriageway. The fire quickly spread, engulfing both vehicles and severely reducing visibility. Motorists were forced to abandon the route as the blaze intensified.
Emergency teams from the Kenya Airports Authority, the police, and other agencies responded to the scene. Officers sealed off the area and dispersed onlookers, citing the danger of further explosions due to spilled fuel. Firefighters worked to contain the blaze as recovery operations began.
The Kenya National Highways Authority confirmed that the Southern Bypass was temporarily closed to allow emergency crews to clear the wreckage and secure the area. Motorists were advised to use alternative routes.
Lang’ata Sub-County Police Commander Pius Mwanthi said the driver of the flour-laden lorry died at the scene. The tanker driver was rescued and taken to hospital for treatment. Authorities said investigations into the cause of the crash were ongoing.
The Kenya Red Cross also confirmed that the collision resulted in an explosion, although further details on injuries were not immediately available. The incident adds to a series of serious accidents involving fuel tankers on Kenyan roads.
In recent years, similar fires and explosions have occurred along major highways, including incidents at Mtito Andei–Voi, Embakasi, Naivasha, Molo, and Siaya County, some of which resulted in multiple fatalities.
