Durban, November 20, 2025 – A serious collision occurred at the intersection of Umbilo Road and Hillier Road in Durban on Thursday morning, resulting in a significant diesel spillage across the roadway.
The incident took place on November 20, 2025, at the corner of Hillier Road and Umbilo Road in the Umbilo area of the city.
Emergency services confirmed the collision and the resulting diesel spillage shortly after the crash. Durban Metro Police officers are on the scene managing the situation and directing traffic. Cleanup operations are currently underway to remove the spilled diesel and clear the roadway to make it safe for motorists again.
The diesel spillage has created hazardous conditions on the road surface. Diesel fuel makes the asphalt extremely slippery, particularly when spread over a wide area as seen in this incident. This type of spillage increases the risk of secondary collisions because vehicles can lose traction easily on the affected sections. Authorities have specifically warned motorists to exercise extreme caution in the area, reduce speed significantly when approaching the intersection, and strictly follow all instructions given by traffic officers stationed at the scene.
Photographic evidence from the scene shows extensive damage to at least one heavy-duty truck involved in the collision. A white truck cab sustained severe front-end damage, with the entire front section crushed and deformed from the impact. The truck appears to have collided with a red trailer truck, as the cab is positioned against the rear portion of the red vehicle. Debris from the collision, including vehicle parts, metal fragments, and other materials, is scattered across the road. The road surface is visibly wet and slick in multiple areas due to the leaked diesel, creating shiny patches that reflect sunlight. A bus is present in the background of the scene, along with several individuals who appear to be assessing the damage or assisting with initial response efforts. The sky is clear, indicating the incident occurred during daylight hours.
No information has been released regarding the exact number of vehicles involved beyond the visible trucks, nor has the precise sequence of events leading to the collision been established. The cause of the crash remains unknown at this stage. Importantly, no reports have indicated any injuries or fatalities resulting from the incident. Emergency responders have focused primarily on containing the spillage and securing the area.
The presence of diesel on the roadway classifies this as a dangerous goods incident, as diesel fuel is considered a hazardous substance when spilled in large quantities. Such spills require specialized handling to prevent further risks, including potential fire hazards (although diesel is less volatile than petrol, ignition remains a concern in certain conditions), and environmental contamination if the fuel enters stormwater drains or nearby areas. Cleanup crews are actively working to absorb and remove the diesel to restore safe driving conditions as quickly as possible.
Traffic disruptions are ongoing as a direct result of the collision and spillage. Motorists traveling through the Umbilo area can expect delays while operations continue. Authorities have advised drivers to avoid the intersection of Hillier Road and Umbilo Road if possible and to use alternative routes to minimize congestion and reduce the chance of additional incidents on the slippery surface.
This incident serves as the latest example of road collisions involving heavy vehicles in the Durban metropolitan area on November 20, 2025. The response has been prompt, with Durban Metro Police taking immediate control of the scene to protect public safety. The cleanup process involves specialized equipment and materials to neutralize the diesel and prevent long-term damage to the road infrastructure.
As the situation develops, further updates may become available regarding the full extent of the damage, the vehicles involved, and any potential contributing factors. For now, the priority remains on clearing the scene and reopening the intersection fully. Motorists are reminded that the combination of vehicle debris and diesel spillage creates particularly treacherous conditions, and strict adherence to reduced speeds and officer directions is essential to prevent further accidents.
The collision took place at a known intersection in Durban, and the rapid response by authorities has helped contain the immediate hazards. Cleanup operations continue, and the road will remain affected until all diesel has been removed and the debris cleared. Drivers in the vicinity are urged to remain patient and vigilant while the area is made safe again.
