Oil spill makes road dangerously slippery; heavy machinery used to lift tanker
What Happened?
Traffic on the M-9 Superhighway was severely disrupted on Friday morning after an oil tanker overturned near Nooriabad, Karachi.
The accident triggered a large oil spill, causing long tailbacks and forcing motorists to reduce speed due to slippery road conditions.
Where Did the Accident Occur?
The incident took place on the Karachi–Hyderabad corridor, a high-volume route used daily by thousands of commuters and commercial vehicles.
Were There Any Injuries?
According to the National Highways and Motorways Police (NHMP) spokesperson, no casualties or injuries have been reported so far.
How Did Police Respond?
Upon receiving alerts, the NHMP South Zone teams rushed to the site and:
- Regulated traffic to prevent further collisions
- Diverted vehicles to alternate lanes
- Coordinated with rescue teams to stabilize the tanker
- Ensured the area was cordoned off to avoid ignition risks
The tanker was later uprighted with heavy machinery, allowing crews to begin clearing the road.
Clean-Up Efforts
Rescue workers and motorway police spread soil and absorbent material across the affected stretch to dry the spilled oil.
The NHMP officials confirmed the track has now been fully restored, but urged motorists to drive cautiously in the area.
Context: Similar Incident Last Year
In December 2024, a trailer collided with an oil tanker on the Native Jetty Bridge, causing a major spill that forced authorities to shut down the road completely.
The latest incident again highlights the risks associated with transporting combustible materials on busy highways.
Recurring Safety Lapses on Highways
While no injuries were reported, the accident exposes persistent vulnerabilities:
- Old and poorly maintained tankers continue to ply highways without strict inspections.
- Drivers often travel long distances without rest, increasing the risk of fatigue-related accidents.
- Previous incidents have shown that oil spills can quickly escalate into fires, especially in high-traffic corridors.
Need for Stronger Enforcement
Experts argue that the government and NHMP must:
- Enforce mandatory safety checks for oil tankers
- Ensure drivers receive certified training for hazardous material transport
- Install more emergency response units along high-risk routes
Political Reaction: Rana Sanaullah’s Comment
Commenting on recurring tanker accidents, senior PML-N leader Rana Sanaullah said:
“These incidents are not mere accidents—they are the result of systemic negligence. The government must take strict action against tanker owners who ignore safety protocols. Public roads cannot remain at the mercy of unregulated vehicles.”
He emphasized that human lives and national highways must be protected through policy, not luck.