PATTAYA, Thailand – A 10-wheel chemical tanker carrying more than 14 tons of corrosive material crashed into a guardrail on Highway 36, the Pattaya–Chonburi bypass, early on November 4, causing a major chemical leak and sending clouds of fumes across the road.
The accident occurred at approximately 1.06am in Nong Pla Lai, Banglamung district. The truck, registered in Chonburi and operated by Chiao Chung Supply Chain Thailand Co Ltd, was transporting the chemical cargo to Phra Nakhon Sri Ayutthaya province.
The rear axle reportedly broke in the impact and struck a chemical transfer pipe, damaging the line and allowing a large quantity of material to escape from the tank. Clouds of fumes spread across the area, forcing passing motorists to slow down.
Rescue workers used water to continuously wet the affected area in an effort to limit the spread of the chemical. However, the damaged transfer pipe meant the leak could not immediately be stopped, requiring crews to maintain their response while the situation remained hazardous.
Authorities warned that the corrosive substance could harm the respiratory system, skin and eyes. Residents were urged to stay away from the accident scene and avoid the affected road. Anyone encountering fumes or smelling chemicals was advised to leave the area for a safe location and follow official instructions.
The 53-year-old driver told officials that he had been transporting the chemicals to Ayutthaya when he became drowsy and briefly fell asleep. The truck then veered off course and struck the guardrail, damaging the rear axle and transfer pipe. Rescue personnel continued efforts to contain the leak, while footage from a dashboard camera in a vehicle travelling behind the tanker was being collected for police to examine the circumstances of the crash.
