NT Reporter
Vasco
An Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) tanker carrying fuel for aircraft operating at Mopa Airport overturned near St Jacinto Island in Chicalim on Wednesday morning after the driver allegedly lost control of the vehicle.
The driver and cleaner were safely rescued by Fire and Emergency Services personnel, while authorities launched a safety operation amid fears of fuel leakage.
As a precautionary measure, the Fire and Emergency Services disconnected the tanker terminal to prevent any leaked fuel from spreading further. The area was secured and safety protocols were enforced due to the highly inflammable nature of ATF.
Station fire officer Dilip Bicholkar said the incident occurred at around 11 am. Fire personnel remained at the site until around 8 pm, monitoring the situation and assisting in efforts to remove the overturned tanker.
Since the vehicle was heavily loaded, a large crane was required to lift it. Following instructions from the mamlatdar, the tanker owner was directed to arrange the crane for the recovery operation.
Residents and bystanders in the vicinity were
instructed not to use mobile phones or smoke near the accident site to eliminate possible sources of
ignition.
As nearby shipyards were carrying out industrial activities, officials also instructed them to suspend welding and other spark-generating work until the area was declared safe, to prevent any fire or explosion.
