Truck Carrying Lithium Batteries Fire Shuts Highway

A truck carrying lithium batteries caught fire and exploded on Bang Na Trat Road at kilometre 40 inbound to Bangkok, forcing lane closures and causing severe traffic disruption. The blaze, which broke out at around 19:30 on 3 May 2026 in Bang Pakong district, Chachoengsao, triggered repeated explosions and damaged parts of the Burapha Withi Expressway above. Authorities closed sections of both the main road and expressway to extinguish the fire and later for engineers to assess structural safety.

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Firefighters initially struggled to contain the flames due to their intensity and the hazardous cargo, requiring foam units to bring the situation under control. Explosions were heard intermittently, alarming motorists and nearby residents. The driver said he was unaware of the cargo details and escaped the vehicle as the fire spread rapidly.

The force of the explosions caused concrete from the elevated Burapha Withi Expressway to crack and fall onto the road below. Police from Bang Pakong station ordered temporary closures of expressway lanes and ground-level routes inbound to Bangkok. Traffic quickly backed up for several kilometres as emergency teams secured the area.

By the morning of 4 May 2026, officials reported that a pile of lithium batteries removed from the truck was still smouldering, with intermittent flames requiring continued water spraying. Authorities confirmed closures remained in place on the main Bang Na Trat inbound lanes at km40, as well as the left lane of the expressway above. Engineers are expected to carry out further safety inspections later in the day.

Local traffic updates indicated that conditions remained hazardous during the morning of 4 May, with lingering heat and smoke from the battery cargo complicating clean-up efforts. Officials are continuing to investigate the cause of the fire.

Pictures courtesy of Amarin

Amarìn reported that the incident highlights the risks associated with transporting lithium batteries, which can ignite and burn intensely once damaged or overheated. Emergency crews remain on standby while authorities determine when it is safe to fully reopen affected routes.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Amarin 4 May 2026