Title: Explosion of a tanker truck in Lemba: Loss of human life and considerable material damage
Introduction :
The Righini district and its surroundings, located in the commune of Lemba in Kinshasa, were shaken by a violent explosion on the morning of Tuesday August 8. A fuel tanker caught fire, killing at least five people and causing extensive material damage, including the destruction of several shops and stores along Bypass Avenue. Local authorities quickly intervened to put out the fire and evacuate the bodies of the victims.
The circumstances of the accident:
According to Deputy High Commissioner Mambu Longa, the tanker was coming from central Kongo and had stopped at Triangle station. When leaving, the vehicle experienced pressure problems and had to reverse, hitting an electric pole and starting the fire. The commissioner also clarified that the truck was carrying effects other than those intended, which raises questions about the exact nature of its cargo.
A tragic outcome:
The first testimonies report two people who died on the spot and another completely calcined body. Authorities fear that other bodies are buried under the rubble of the vehicle. Kinshasa’s deputy governor, Gerard Mulumba, confirmed the death toll at five, but there are still ongoing searches to ensure no further casualties.
The intervention of the emergency services:
From the early hours of the day, the emergency services were mobilized to put out the fire and evacuate the injured and the bodies of the victims. Despite efforts, the fire was still not fully contained by noon. The local authorities and residents of the neighborhood are deeply shocked by this tragic event which has caused both mourning and considerable material loss.
Conclusion :
The explosion of the tanker truck in Lemba is a stark reminder of the dangers to which the inhabitants of urban neighborhoods are exposed. This tragic accident also raises questions about the safety of transporting hazardous materials and the need to strengthen prevention measures in order to avoid such disasters in the future. While awaiting the results of the ongoing investigations, the local population expresses its solidarity with the victims and their families, while hoping that measures will be taken to avoid the repetition of such events