Truck carrying hazardous waste catches fire: extensive damage
A truck carrying hazardous waste burned out on the Autobahn 9 in northern Upper Bavaria after a tire burst. The flying sparks caused the vehicle to catch fire on Friday near Reichertshofen (district of Pfaffenhofen an der Ilm), according to the police. Seven containers with various chemicals also went up in flames. Investigators were initially unable to say exactly what substances the truck was carrying. The cargo documents were also burnt.
By order of the water management authority, the grass verge at the scene of the accident had been dredged to prevent further impact on the environment. However, there was no danger to the public, said a police spokesman. The police estimated the damage at around 400,000 euros. No one was injured.
The accident and subsequent fire caused significant damage to both the truck and the seven containers carrying various chemicals. Precautions needed to be taken in Upper Bavaria, as similar incidents involving hazardous materials could lead to further fires or accidents on the roads.
Source: www.dpa.com
