Lorry carrying palm oil catches fire at Pasir Gudang Highway

JOHOR BARU: A 30-tonne lorry transporting palm oil caught fire near a workshop at the Pasir Gudang Highway here on Tuesday (Nov 26) morning.

Kempas Fire and Rescue Station chief Azziddy Che Jaafa said that the incident, which occurred at 6.39am, was successfully brought under control within an hour by the Fire and Rescue Department.

“Emergency services received the distress call at 6.39am, with the first fire engine arriving at the scene at 6.50am.

“The lorry, driven by a 56-year-old man, was carrying palm oil and sustained 45% damage in the fire. Fortunately, no casualties were reported,” he said in a statement.

Azziddy added that the firefighting operation involved one water hose line and a 100ft hose reel, using water sourced from the fire engine’s tank.

Two vehicles, including a Fire Rescue Tender (FRT) and an Emergency Medical Rescue Services (EMRS) unit, along with eight personnel from the Tebrau and Kempas fire stations, were deployed to the location.

“The fire was completely extinguished by 7.49am, with swift action by the Fire Department preventing further damage and ensuring the safety of the surrounding area.

“The cause of the fire and the estimated losses are currently under investigation,” he added.

It is understood that the incident has also caused a massive congestion along the highway during peak hour.