A DAF truck transporting 600 bags of cement veered off the Techiman-Kumasi Highway near Kuntuso and plunged into the Tano River on Tuesday. According to the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), the accident occurred when the driver swerved to avoid hitting a motorbike, causing the truck to lose control. The vehicle, heavily loaded with cement, ended up submerged in the river, leading to significant damage and loss of cargo.
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The truck’s mate was trapped in the wreckage but was swiftly rescued by the Techiman Metro Fire Station team. After being freed, the injured mate was handed over to the National Ambulance Service for medical treatment. Fortunately, no fatalities were reported, though the incident caused a temporary disruption on the busy highway. Emergency responders worked to salvage some of the cement bags, but a substantial portion was lost in the river.
Authorities have urged motorists to exercise caution on the Techiman-Kumasi stretch, which has seen multiple accidents due to reckless driving and poor road conditions. The Ghana National Fire Service emphasized the importance of defensive driving, especially when sharing the road with smaller vehicles like motorbikes. Investigations into the exact cause of the accident are ongoing, with officials assessing whether speed, mechanical failure, or road defects contributed to the crash.
The incident highlights the dangers faced by commercial drivers on Ghana’s highways, where sudden maneuvers to avoid collisions can have severe consequences. While the quick response of emergency services prevented a tragedy, the accident serves as a reminder for stricter enforcement of traffic regulations and improved road safety measures. Motorists are advised to remain vigilant, particularly on high-risk stretches, to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
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