CNG Truck Overturns on Delhi-Amritsar Highway, Emergency Response Averts Catastrophe
A potentially catastrophic disaster was narrowly avoided on the Delhi-Amritsar National Highway this Saturday afternoon when a truck transporting compressed natural gas (CNG) cylinders overturned, prompting a high-stakes emergency operation. The incident, which unfolded near Libra village, created immediate panic as gas began hissing from damaged valves, threatening a massive explosion on one of India's most critical transit corridors.
Driver's Account of the Accident
The driver, identified as Gurvinder Singh from Mandi Gobindgarh, informed authorities that the crash occurred when he was forced to swerve and brake abruptly to avoid another vehicle that suddenly cut into his path. This sudden maneuver caused the heavy cargo of CNG cylinders to shift dramatically, resulting in the truck flipping onto its side. The sound of escaping gas quickly alerted nearby residents and passing motorists, creating a tense standoff as the risk of a spark-ignited blast became imminent.
Immediate Emergency Response
Members of the Sadak Suraksha Force (Road Safety Force) arrived at the scene within minutes, implementing a comprehensive emergency protocol that included:
- Immediate evacuation of all civilians and bystanders from the immediate area
- Complete traffic lockdown on the GT Road in both directions to eliminate potential ignition sources
- Rapid deployment of fire suppression teams to manage the leaking cylinders
The fire brigade arrived promptly to douse the area and secure the leaking units. Sub-inspector Sukhdev Singh of the Sadak Suraksha Force confirmed that firefighters successfully isolated the leaking cylinders from the rest of the cargo. With assistance from a JCB machine and local volunteers, the overturned truck was eventually righted and secured.
Miraculous Outcome and Aftermath
Remarkably, no fire or explosion occurred despite the dangerous circumstances. Driver Gurvinder Singh received treatment for minor injuries at the scene before being transported to a local hospital, where he is reported to be in stable condition. The highway was reopened to traffic only after the leaking cylinders were moved to a secure, isolated location and safety officials declared the site completely safe for public use.
This incident highlights the critical importance of emergency preparedness and rapid response capabilities on India's busy national highways. The coordinated efforts of multiple agencies prevented what could have been a devastating tragedy with far-reaching consequences for both human life and infrastructure.
