08:21

The Limpopo Department of Transport and Community Safety says the R71 remains closed to motorists as emergency services continue working on the scene.

Reports on a local emergency WhatsApp group suggest the truck lost control and crashed through the barrier just above the Magoebaskloof Ruskamp as a result of failing brakes and burst into flames at around 01:00. The blaze has since been extinguished.

“Emergency services are still at the scene and although most of the wreckage has been cleared and majority of the consequential fire in the surrounding forest extinguished, the pass remains closed. We have also had reports that the fire has reached the property of the Warriors Basecamp and they are fighting to prevent it from reaching the barn on the property,” the message reads.

It is also reported that the driver of the truck escaped without injuries.

Casualties are yet to be confirmed despite previous reports of one fatality.

Taueatsoala said motorists are advised to use the following alternative routes:

• George’s Valley Road (R528 road)
• R81 via Modjadjiskloof

“Motorists can also use alternative routes as directed by our traffic authorities. We urge all motorists to exercise caution and prioritise their safety. We will provide updates as more information becomes available,” he says.

This remains a developing story and more information will be shared once available.

06:49

TZANEEN – The R71 through Magoebaskloof has been closed until further notice after a truck transporting gas cylinders exploded in the early hours of this morning, resulting in the death of one person and a mountain-side forest fire.

The explosion, which occurred above Magoebaskloof Ruskamp, triggered multiple blasts that were heard across the area.

Emergency response teams including the Letaba Fire Protection Association, Tzaneen Fire Brigade, SARZA Limpopo, Disaster Management and the Tzaneen Emergency Support Team were quickly dispatched.

By 04:30, crews were still battling the fire, which was said to be creeping down the mountain towards Warriors Camp, making access to the explosion site too dangerous.

“It is too dangerous to access at the moment,” a message on a local WhatsApp group read.

A video taken by a passing motorist shows flames engulfing a section of the forest, with explosions audible in the background.

@polokwanereview 🚨 A gas tanker exploded on the R71 in Magoebaskloof, Limpopo earlier this morning. One person has died, the road is closed, and emergency crews are on scene. Avoid the area! #Magoebaskloof #R71 #BreakingNews #polokwanereview #limpopo ♬ I feel lost in this world – Gabriél

“Woah! That’s definitely a truck with something that’s exploding. It’s got something on it,” the driver can be heard saying.

The cause of the explosion will now form part of an investigation.

Authorities have often reminded motorists that heavy vehicles are not permitted to use the R71 and should instead take the George’s Valley Road as an alternative route.

The R71 will remain closed until further notice, and road users are urged to avoid the area.