On December 26, 2023, the Quebrada Blanca tunnel, a crucial artery of the Bogotá – Villavicencio road, became the scene of a terrible accident. A gas tanker truck overturned in the tunnel, triggering a violent explosion and a large fire, resulting in substantial damage and significant disruptions.
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The driver of the vehicle, identified by the plate SRP672, suffered severe burns, covering more than 80% of his body. He was initially evacuated to a clinic in Villavicencio and, due to the severity of his injuries, transferred to Bogotá.
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The closure of the Quebrada Blanca tunnel disrupted traffic on the Bogotá – Villavicencio road. The accident affected the logistics and travel time in the region, also impacting the traffic flow and tolls in Pipiral. Emergency services, including firefighters from neighboring municipalities, responded promptly, containing the disaster. By around 17h00, the situation was under control, preventing greater damage.
Authorities are investigating the cause of the accident. A mechanical failure that could have caused the tanker truck to overturn is among the possibilities being considered.
The governor of Meta, Juan Guillermo Zuluaga, raised suspicions about FARC dissidents, suggesting a possible mutiny to regain control of the territory as a motive for the incident, a suspicion that has not been confirmed by authorities.
Finding answers and preventing the recurrence of such incidents has become an essential focus for the region in this time of crisis.
Photo and Video: Reproduction Twitter @DisasterTrackHQ
