Fuel Tanker Collision on Highway 304 Causes Major Oil Spill

Kabin buri: A six-wheeled enclosed truck rolled back and collided with a diesel fuel tanker, causing a massive spill of fuel onto Highway 304 at kilometer 186+500, heading towards Nakhon Ratchasima. The incident led to the closure of both lanes of the highway to manage the spill and initiate cleanup operations.

According to Thai News Agency, CCTV footage captured the moment when the six-wheeled truck slowly rolled into the diesel fuel tanker. The collision resulted in a significant spill of diesel onto the road near the Thung Pho market in Na Di District, Prachinburi Province. The right lane of the highway saw the diesel tanker, which was carrying 42,000 liters of fuel, sustain a hole in its second left fuel tank, leading to the leakage.

The truck driver, who was from Rayong Province, had parked his vehicle on the roadside to purchase water from a nearby convenience store when the incident occurred. Upon returning, he found that his truck had rolled into the fuel tanker.

Mr. Somjai Phutthasena, the Na Di District Chief, reported that the collision took place at 7:40 PM. The oil tanker was en route from the Laem Chabang oil depot to Nong Khai Province with its full load of fuel. The impact damaged one compartment of the tanker, leaking 10,000 liters of oil onto the highway.

Emergency response teams quickly addressed the spill by allowing the oil to drain to below the leak level to prevent further spread. Cleanup efforts began immediately to restore normal traffic flow on this crucial route. Coordination with highway police and the Prachinburi Highway Department enabled the opening of a special lane to ease the congestion.

The tanker truck driver, Mr. Arkhom, recounted the tense moments following the collision. He had just left the Na Dee weighing station when he encountered the parked six-wheeled truck. Initially believing it was about to reverse, he swerved to avoid it, but the truck rolled out and collided with his tanker.

The affected compartment of the tanker initially held 10,000 liters of oil, with estimates suggesting that 5,000-6,000 liters leaked onto the road. Emergency crews spread sand over the oil slick, using bulldozers to ensure thorough absorption before removing the sand. Foam was also sprayed to treat the tanker, and leaks were sealed with appropriate equipment. The damaged vehicle was subsequently relocated to a safe area.

Efforts continue to ensure the safety and cleanliness of the affected highway section, with investigations underway to prevent similar incidents in the future.