A trailer caught fire along the Busia Malaba highway on Wednesday after a cabin gas explosion incident.
According to witnesses the driver was preparing a roadside meal when he reportedly fell asleep inside there.
The cooking gas remained on for some time before suddenly exploding and igniting the truck cabin area.
Flames quickly spread through the driver compartment trapping him inside as smoke and heat intensified rapidly nearby.
First responders and nearby motorists said the doors failed to open because the locking system jammed completely.
Rescuers reported they forced entry through a side window and managed to remove the injured driver safely.
They also pulled the gas cylinder from the burning cabin to reduce further danger and escalation risk.
Attempts by witnesses to control the blaze using soil and water did not succeed at first there.
Drivers who had parked close to the scene were instructed to move away immediately for safety reasons.
Several bystanders criticized emergency services for delayed response claiming nearby stations should have reacted much faster today.
One witness said firefighters arrived nearly an hour later while police officers reportedly took about fifty minutes.
Local residents argued that quicker response times could prevent severe losses during roadside emergencies involving fuel or.
Authorities have not yet released an official technical report explaining the exact cause of the explosion publicly.
The injured driver was taken to a nearby hospital and is currently receiving treatment and observation there.
Transport safety experts warn drivers against cooking inside cabins because confined spaces increase fire and explosion risks.
They advise using designated rest areas and proper outdoor equipment instead of improvised stoves inside vehicle compartments.
This highway handles heavy cargo traffic daily meaning small mistakes can quickly turn into major vehicle incidents.
The latest fire incident has renewed debate about driver fatigue roadside behavior and enforcement of safety regulations.
Police urged drivers to avoid open flames near fuel systems and to inspect equipment before stopping anywhere.
Investigations are ongoing and officials say more details will be shared once assessments and interviews are completed.
The earlier bypass accident involving a truck driver also raised concern about long distance schedules and rest.
Road users are reminded to report hazards quickly and keep emergency numbers accessible during every long trip.
Safety agencies continue urging transport companies to train drivers better and monitor compliance with fire prevention rules.
More updates are expected as investigators review evidence from the scene and compile their final findings report.
