Pictures courtesy of MGR

A tractor towing a trailer loaded with rice straw caught fire on a public road in Phayao province on 9 January 2026, forcing authorities to close traffic and causing queues stretching more than one kilometre. The blaze broke out at around 5.00 pm and sent flames and thick black smoke across the roadway, creating an immediate hazard for motorists. No injuries or fatalities were reported after emergency crews brought the situation under control.

Police from Mae Ka Police Station received the alert and moved to the scene on Ubali Road along the Mae Ka–Champawai route. The vehicle involved was an agricultural tractor hauling a large quantity of rice straw, which ignited rapidly once the fire took hold. Officers coordinated with local agencies to secure the area and prevent further danger to road users.

Witnesses reported intense flames, sparks and ash from burning straw spreading into the air and across the carriageway. Due to the risk of falling debris and reduced visibility, officers temporarily shut the road in both directions. The closure led to traffic congestion of more than one kilometre as vehicles were halted or diverted.

Firefighters from Mae Ka Municipality, the Champawai Subdistrict Administrative Organisation, rescue units and nearby fire engines were dispatched to the scene. Crews worked together to spray water continuously on the burning tractor and trailer. It took more than 50 minutes to bring the fire under control, after which teams continued dousing the area to prevent reignition.

Initial assessments suggested the fire may have been caused by heat build-up or sparks coming into contact with the straw, allowing flames to spread quickly through the load. Officials said a detailed investigation would be carried out to determine the exact cause.

Manager online reported that once the fire was fully extinguished and the risk removed, officers began restoring traffic flow on the affected stretch of road. Clean-up operations focused on clearing debris and ensuring the surface was safe for vehicles. Further findings from the investigation are expected to be released after inspections are completed.

Key Takeaways

• A tractor towing a straw-loaded trailer caught fire on Ubali Road in Phayao on 9 January 2026.

• The incident caused a temporary road closure and traffic congestion exceeding one kilometre.

• Firefighters controlled the blaze within 50 minutes, with no injuries reported.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now from MGR.2026-01-11

 

 

The second one in as many days.....