AT least six people have been killed after a “tsunami of fire” exploded from a tanker carrying 60 tons of liquid gas.
The truck burst into flames after a horror crash close to a busy market in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.
Dramatic footage showed the tanker engulfed in flames before a second massive explosion sparked a huge fireball.
People were seen fleeing from the explosion as cars turned around to get out of the way of the raging inferno.
The series of explosions were felt hundreds of metres away from the burning truck, according to reports.
More than 600 firefighters along with 100 vehicles were involved in bringing the blaze under control.
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Several firefighters were killed in the inferno, Mongolia’s Emergency Management Agency said.
“Six people were killed, 14 people – three children and 11 adults – were injured,” spokesman G. Ariunbuyan said.
“23 adults and 17 children were evacuated from the area and placed into a hotel, 30 cars were burned.
“Three of the people who were killed were servicemen of the 63rd unit of Bayazurkh district.
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“Deepest condolences to the families of the officers.”
The official said at least 11 adults and three children needed medical treatment for burns.
The explosion was sparked by a crash at a busy roundabout in the capital.
“Based on the preliminary assessment of the cause of the fire, it is concluded that the explosion happened when a truck loaded with liquefied natural gas did not notice the distance while moving on the roundabout and collided with a passenger car,” Ariunbuyan said.
Fiona Blyth, Britain’s ambassador to Mongolia, said: “On behalf of the British embassy I extend my condolences to the officers who lost their lives during the tragic accident at Dunjingarav.
“Our thoughts are with the families of all those affected and we wish a fast recovery to those injured in this tragic event.”
US ambassador to Mongolia, Richard Buangan, was “deeply saddened by the terrible accident”.
“I would like to express my deepest condolences to the families and friends of the NEMA employees who lost their lives in this shocking accident,” he said.
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Imogen Braddick
