The busy A1202 Leman Street at Whitechapel in east London has been closed because of the danger of explosion after a transit van carrying a propane gas cylinder caught fire.
Fire crews are at the scene at the moment near the junction with Alie Street.
An ambulance has also arrived for a man overcome by smoke who is being treated at the scene.
Two crews from nearby Whitechapel fire-station are involved and a Fire Brigade aerial ladder has also had to be brought in from Old Kent Road in south London.
A Fire Brigade spokesman told the Docklands & East London Advertiser a few minutes ago: “A temporary safety cordon has been set up as gas cylinders can explode when close to heat. The van is totally ablaze.”
Rush-hour traffic is affected between Aldgate, the City and Tower Hill, drivers are warned.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here