WATCH: Truck catches fire in Richards Bay
Dave Savides Less than a minute
The City of uMhlathuze's fire and rescue crew have extinguished a burning truck on Geleiergang in Alton, Richards Bay this (Monday) afternoon.
The fire, which is believed to have started at the engine, destroyed the front-end of the heavy vehicle, which was empty at the time of the blaze.
No injuries have been reported. The road is partially obstructed but still accessible to motorists.
Don't have the ZO app? Download it to your Android or Apple device here:
HAVE YOUR SAY
Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.
For news straight to your phone invite us:
WhatsApp – 060 784 2695
Instagram – zululand_observer
At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The Citizen
4 hours ago
- The Citizen
Brake failure reignites Magoebaskloof safety concerns
TZANEEN – The truck carrying gas cylinders on the Magoebaskloof pass last Wednesday, July 16, suffered brake failure, renewing concerns over heavy vehicles illegally using the route. A S P E C I A L I S T ' S O P I N I O N Peter Pilusa, a Tzaneen-based diesel mechanic and brake system specialist, said such failures are often avoidable. 'Brake failure usually results from poor maintenance, overheating, or driver error,' he explained. 'Many drivers descend the pass relying only on service brakes, rather than using engine retarders or lower gears. This causes the brakes to overheat, a condition known as brake fade.' Pilusa said that worn brake linings, air system issues, and leaking brake fluid also contribute to such incidents. He stressed the importance of thorough pre-trip inspections, especially before navigating steep routes like Magoebaskloof. 'Regular inspections, especially before tackling a pass like Magoebaskloof, are crucial,' he said. Brake fade, particularly in trucks with air brake systems, occurs when overheated components can no longer produce the friction needed to stop the vehicle, leaving drivers with little control on downhill slopes. Experts are calling on transport companies to improve driver training, especially for mountain pass navigation, and enforce strict vehicle maintenance. Authorities are also being urged to increase brake check enforcement at key points along major passes. The incident adds to a growing list of similar cases on Magoebaskloof in recent months. Pilusa said he hopes this latest event encourages transport operators and drivers to consider appropriate and lasting changes. 'The road has always been steep,' he said. 'What needs to change is how seriously we take safety and maintenance.' C O M M U N I T Y C O M M E N T S 'Fix the Georges Valley road properly. But even then it wont stop the trucks from making use of the R71. If companies don't take accountability for their fleet we will forever be fighting a losing battle.' – Magda Jacobs Koekemoer 'Company must bear code of conduct and road detector if someone pass the destination to report immediately.' – Janson Raptor 'Road has no problem, inexperienced, incompetent drivers, mechanical fault trucks is the problem.' – Bra Kaizer Kgops 'All trucks should use R81 which is much safer and any truck found on the R71 be fined or owner lose operating license.' – Gavin Monama 'As it is Magoebas is dangerous enough for any vehicle…. WHY would any company allow their truck to travel this route????? Mooketsi is only 10km longer BUT safe and a lot faster!' – Janine Windell 'Have traffic police actually do their duty at the turnoff and direct trucks onto the R81. Of course, that road is in SERIOUS need of repair! It's bad for tourism on that road to doom…' – Zu Groenewald At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
8 hours ago
- The Citizen
Locals invited to rev their engines for Dundee Adult Centre 4x4 fund-raiser
Residents are invited to gear up for a muddy adventure in support of a worthy cause at the Dundee Adult Centre 4×4 Family Day, set to take place on Saturday, July 26, at Corby Rock Farm, just 7km outside Dundee on the Nquthu road. The community-driven event serves as a fund-raiser to support the ongoing work of the centre, which provides care for adults who are mentally challenged and/or disabled. Drivers can put their off-road skills to the test on a specially prepared course, with an entry fee of R600 per vehicle. Local businesses are encouraged to sponsor an obstacle for R1000, offering a unique opportunity to promote their brand while contributing to community upliftment. 'This is more than just a 4×4 challenge,' said organiser Willie Steenberg. 'It's about bringing people together, raising funds for a good cause, and having loads of fun while we're at it.' Camping facilities are available for Friday and Saturday night at no cost, with hot water and ablution blocks ensuring a comfortable stay for families. Spectators are welcome, and organisers are calling on the public to come out, cheer on participants, and enjoy a fun-filled family day outdoors. Vehicle entries are limited, and early booking is essential via 073 847 4898. HAVE YOUR SAY: Like our Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and Instagram or email us at [email protected]. Add us on WhatsApp 071 277 1394. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
a day ago
- The Citizen
Shabalala bus driver recognised for exceptional driving skills
Buscor's annual Driver of the Year competition recognised the hard work and exceptional driving skills of its employees. The event was hosted on June 28. During the ceremony, Joseph Manzini (56), who has been driving buses for nine years, was recognised as the overall winner – the Top One Driver of the Year. Manzini said the award was unexpected, even though he knew he had strong driving skills and that his passengers feel safe on his bus. 'I am so happy that my hard work is recognised. This will push me even harder to continue being the best at what I do – which is driving,' said Manzini. He transports people with different personalities every day and must remain calm at all times, as image and professionalism are important. ALSO READ: Khutsalani dominates at Promaths Awards 'I treat my passengers with respect so that they, in turn, show respect without back-chatting. In them I've found a family, because I've gotten to know most of them.'Before joining Buscor, Manzini worked as a truck driver for 15 years. 'That gave me the skills I need for driving a bus,' he said. ALSO READ: Buffelspruit woman facilitates change, one stitch at a time He believes anyone can win the competition if they are committed. 'My advice to other drivers is to work hard so they can also be recognised. It's not that they aren't good drivers – but hard work takes determination.' At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
