POLOKWANE – The R71 between Polokwane and Tzaneen has officially reopened to motorists following a gas cylinder explosion in Magoebaskloof in the early hours of this morning.

The Limpopo Department of Transport confirmed the road is safe for use after fire crews managed to contain and extinguish the blaze which spread through the forest near the Magoebaskloof Ruskamp.

A truck carrying gas cylinders lost control, crashed through a barrier and exploded just after 01:00, reportedly due to brake failure.

The impact set off a series of explosions and ignited the mountainside fire.

Emergency teams, including the Letaba Fire Protection Association, Tzaneen Fire Brigade, Disaster Management, SARZA Limpopo and the Tzaneen Emergency Support Team responded swiftly and remained on scene throughout the morning.

The driver is said to have escaped the vehicle before the cylinders exploded and no fatalities have been officially confirmed, despite earlier reported claims.

Acting transport spokesperson Matome Taueatsoala, however, did confirm that the driver sustained minor injuries and was taken to Tzaneen Medi-Clinic for treatment.

“Motorists are advised to exercise caution and follow all traffic rules to ensure their safety while traveling on the R71,” he said.