Truck Carrying Batteries Erupts in Flames, Halts Bangkok Traffic

Truck Carrying Batteries Erupts in Flames, Halts Bangkok Traffic

BANGKOK, May 4, 2026 — A truck carrying lithium batteries caught fire and triggered multiple explosions on a major highway east of Bangkok, forcing road closures and causing severe traffic disruption, authorities said.

The blaze broke out at around 7:30 p.m. on Sunday on Bang Na-Trat Road in Chachoengsao province, with flames spreading rapidly and explosions reported as the batteries ignited.

Firefighters struggled to contain the fire due to the hazardous cargo, eventually deploying foam units to bring the situation under control. The truck driver escaped without injury and told police he was unaware of the nature of the cargo.

The explosions damaged sections of the elevated Burapha Withi Expressway above the scene, with cracks reported in the concrete structure and debris falling onto the road below.

Authorities ordered the closure of inbound lanes on Bang Na-Trat Road at kilometre 40 and parts of the expressway to allow emergency operations and safety inspections. Traffic quickly backed up for several kilometres.

By Monday morning, officials said some of the battery cargo removed from the truck was still smouldering, requiring continued cooling as engineers assessed structural safety.

Authorities said the closures would remain in place until it is safe to reopen the affected routes, while investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing.

The incident has highlighted the risks associated with transporting lithium batteries, which can ignite and burn intensely when damaged or exposed to high temperatures.