Police have closed the Thika Superhighway between Roysambu and Githurai 45 after a tanker transporting petrol overturned along the highway.
In videos seen by Kenyans.co.ke on Thursday, July 14, fuel started spilling after the tanker overturned leading to a huge traffic snarl-up.
Responding to the accident, Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) noted that police were on site directing traffic.
"KeNHA wishes to notify the public that a section of Thika Superhighway between Roysambu and Githurai (outbound traffic) has been temporarily closed after a petroleum tanker overturned, spilling fuel on the road.
"Police are on site and controlling traffic as well as ensuring safe evacuation of the tanker. Motorists and members of the public are asked to evacuate from the area and to cooperate with the authorities as the evacuation process takes place," KeNHA notified the public.
Photos shared by the Authority revealed that the army fire service trucks were on site, cleaning the spilled fuel.
Motorists had decried the traffic situation along the highway, with some pointing out that they had to cancel their plans and divert to other routes.
"It's bad on both sides. People are turning back up the left side so there is chaos at the Roysambu roundabout. I had to go back and find my way to the northern bypass. I wanted to go to Kahawa Wendani but could not access it."
"I have been stuck here in Roysambu for two hours now. This part of Thika road should be declared a black spot."
"Thika Road chaos today will be on some other level. Hoping for a safe evacuation," read some of the comments from motorists who took to their social media platforms to lament about the accident.
In such cases, motorists are usually advised to drive with caution and at a safe distance to avoid the risk of skidding. Further, oil spills on land can wreak havoc if no action is taken on time.
