Vehicle maintenance and safety concerns cited in Santa Cruz road fires

Captain Álvaro Castillo, commander of the UUBR Volunteer Firefighters in Santa Cruz, has warned that poor vehicle maintenance and inadequate fire prevention equipment are increasing the risk of road fires in the department.

These warnings follow a recent accident near the Basilio toll on the highway connecting Santa Cruz de la Sierra and Camiri, where two tanker trucks caught fire following a collision. While one driver was hospitalized, police are currently investigating the circumstances of the crash.

Castillo noted that many vehicle fires occurring without prior accidents are likely due to deficient maintenance, particularly among heavy transport and large fleets. He called for increased driver awareness and reinforced road safety measures to combat the recurring nature of these incidents.