UPDATE: Three confirmed dead after fuel tanker explosion in Clairwood
Transnet Pipelines said the severity of the incident highlighted the dangers of tampering with high-pressure petroleum pipelines and the associated risks.
THREE people were confirmed dead from a fire that broke out in Clairwood on Sunday, October 31.
According to Transnet Pipelines, the fire was a result of an attempted theft at the Transnet Petroleum Pipeline in Horseshoe Road, that resulted in the explosion of a fuel tanker.
“Transnet Pipelines, the eThekwini Disaster Management team and other emergency response teams worked tirelessly yesterday and throughout the night to bring the fire on the 24” Multi-Product Pipeline under control. Transnet extends its condolences to the families of the deceased,” said Transnet Pipelines spokesperson, Saret Knoetze.
Residents from the nearby informal settlement were evacuated and housed in a safe environment overnight.
Knoetze said the severity of the incident highlighted the dangers of tampering with high-pressure petroleum pipelines and the associated risks.
“Teams were concentrating on making the area safe to commence with the repairs to the pipeline as soon as possible, to ensure the security of supply to the inland market,” said Knoetze.
She noted there has been an unprecedented spate of fuel theft incidents on the pipelines, and the associated infrastructure, in the last two years.
“Due to the inherent dangers of tampering with high-pressure petroleum pipelines, these incidents have resulted in a fire and other asset damage, as well as environmental incidents, with high remediation costs. Due to the nature of the petroleum products transported on the pipeline, some activities have resulted in serious injuries and/or fatalities.
“We continue to work with law enforcement agencies to stop this criminal activity and keep the pipelines and surrounding communities safe. As the pipelines traverse many rural, semi-rural and urban areas, we continue to appeal to any persons living near the pipelines or driving past, especially at night, to report any suspicious activities,” she said.
To report illegal or suspicious activity, or for more information, call the Transnet Pipelines toll-free number on 0800 203 843.
