Fuel Tanker Crash and Explosion on Western Iran Highway Leaves 11 Dead, 7 Injured
SANANDAJ:More than 11 people died and at least seven others were injured after a disastrous fuel tanker crash on a main road in western Iran.
The international media and state reports said the incident took place on the crowded Sanandaj-Hamdan highway. Initial investigations show that, while travelling from Hamadan to Marivan, the oil tanker’s braking system had a serious malfunction that led to its loss of control, turning over and crashing into vehicles nearby.
The collision was followed by a large explosion, which quickly engulfed the tanker and nearby vehicles in flames. Emergency rescue teams and firefighters rushed to the scene, and a blaze was raging there. Rescue forces said that the wounded victims were immediately evacuated and taken to hospitals in nearby cities in Sanandaj for immediate treatment.
A comprehensive study is under way into the technical failure and safety procedures used in carrying heavy loads on the line.