The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has rescued 17 passengers after a compressed natural gas (CNG)-powered commercial bus caught fire following a reported gas explosion along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.
One passenger sustained severe burn injuries during the incident, which occurred at Berger Bus Stop on the Lagos-bound section of the busy expressway.
LASTMA disclosed the development in a statement issued on Wednesday by its Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department, Adebayo Taofiq.
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According to the agency, the incident involved a commercial bus with registration number EKY 798 YK, which was conveying 18 occupants, including the driver, from the Mowe-Ibafo axis towards Lagos.
The vehicle reportedly caught fire while in motion, triggering panic among passengers and other motorists using the expressway.
LASTMA explained that its personnel quickly mobilised to the scene and successfully evacuated 17 occupants, including the driver, without injuries.
However, one male passenger seated at the rear of the vehicle sustained severe burns during the fire outbreak.
The injured passenger was immediately evacuated and transported to the Lagos State Trauma and Emergency Centre, Toll Gate, where he received urgent medical attention.
Officers of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service also arrived at the scene and successfully extinguished the fire, preventing it from spreading to nearby vehicles and other areas.
Meanwhile, personnel of the Ojodu Police Division provided security and maintained order throughout the rescue and firefighting operations.
Reacting to the incident, LASTMA General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, commended the agency’s personnel for their courage, professionalism and swift response, which helped prevent further casualties.
Bakare-Oki noted that the incident had highlighted the importance of prompt emergency response, effective collaboration among relevant agencies and the availability of adequately trained personnel in managing road emergencies.
He also urged commercial transport operators, particularly those operating CNG-powered vehicles, to prioritise regular professional inspections and strictly comply with established safety regulations.
The LASTMA boss further stressed the need for transport operators to ensure that their vehicles’ gas storage and delivery systems are properly maintained to prevent avoidable accidents.
He reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to protecting lives, ensuring effective traffic management and strengthening cooperation with emergency response agencies across Lagos State.
Bakare-Oki also appreciated the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service and the Nigeria Police Force for their prompt assistance during the rescue operation.
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