eThekwini municipal spokesperson Gugu Sisilana said the suspected hydrochloric acid was from a tanker on the N3 eastbound just before the Pavilion Shopping Centre.

“Motorists and road users are urgent to avoid the N3 both bounds and take alternative routes. All emergency services are currently at the scene.”

“Inhalation of the hydrochloric acid may cause eye, nose, and respiratory tract irritation and inflammation in humans,” said Sisilana.

She said members of the public who may be in the vicinity are advised to wear masks or cover their noses with a damp cloth to avoid inhaling the poisonous gas.

“Further updates will be communicated,” Sisilana added.

ALS Paramedics spokesperson Garrith Jamieson said initial reports from first responders were that the spillage was a white hazy substance that caught the back of the throat, and caused chest discomfort and abdominal pain.

“Immediately all role-players were dispatched including the eThekwini Fire Department’s chemical unit. Paramedics also made their way but obviously stayed on the outside of the perimeter,” he said.

Paramedics found that five people suffered the symptoms such as battling to breathe.

“Three people, who had been frontline and had been trying to assist other motorists to stop from going further, were treated on scene by paramedics before they were transported to hospital for the further care they required,” Jamieson said.

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