Chemical Spill Causes Chaos in Rayong, Sparks Environmental Concern

[Georgealbert]

 

 

A chemical spill brought traffic to a standstill and raised alarm among Rayong residents on the morning of November 11, after a number of caustic soda totes fell from a truck in Pluak Daeng District. CCTV footage captured the dramatic scene at the Map Toei intersection, where the totes tumbled onto the road, with some rupturing and spilling the hazardous chemical.

 

The incident occurred around 09:50 as the truck was transporting the liquid caustic soda from Map Yang Phon to the Pinthong 3 Industrial Estate. According to the driver, Mr. Kenmanee, 46, the truck’s brakes malfunctioned as he was taking a curve, causing the totes to dislodge and fall onto the road surface.

 

Caustic soda, also known as sodium hydroxide (NaOH), has strong corrosive properties, which can pose significant health risks if, including severe burns and respiratory issues, it comes into contact with skin, eyes, or lungs.

 

Witnesses reported an intense chemical odour, prompting emergency services to swiftly secure the area. Pluak Daeng rescue teams arrived quickly, cordoning off the scene to ensure the safety of drivers and pedestrians.

 

Local resident Mr. Panupon Wongkrueason, 38, voiced community concerns, urging officials to expedite the cleanup to prevent environmental contamination. “This spill is a serious risk not only for us but also for the surrounding environment,” he stated. The Village Headman, Mr. Apisit Arttharaksa, 33, led initial containment efforts, applying lime and sand to the spill to minimise the spread of the caustic soda.

 

Pluak Daeng District Chief Mr. Sakon Korakot, health officials, and environmental agencies were on-site to monitor and manage the situation. Authorities closed the Map Toei intersection temporarily to allow for the safe cleanup of the road surface, diverting traffic to alternative routes and cautioning drivers to avoid slippery conditions.

 

The incident has sparked calls for stricter regulations on hazardous material transport, with officials emphasising the need for rigorous safety checks on trucks carrying dangerous goods.

 

Picture from responders.

-- 2024-11-12

 

 

[sherwood]

Again!

Seems every month there is a chemical fire, toxic spill, illegal storage incident in Rayong.

 

[degrub]

This was transportation accident. Could have been anywhere  , any roadway. A classic “brakes failed because i was driving too fast into a corner or through a traffic light” driving strategy in the country.