Traffic delays after supermarket lorry blaze 5/1/13
Delays are likely over the next few days on the A9, the main route between Inverness and the central belt, after a lorry fire damaged the road.
The Tesco lorry was carrying a delivery for the retailer’s Stornoway supermarket. It was heading for the MV Muirneag at Ullapool for the crossing over the Minch.
A sudden blaze raged through the Tesco-
The supermarket trailer was being hauled by a D R Macleod truck unit. The driver spotted flames underneath the rear of the trailer as it drove over the Slochd Beag bridge, north of Carrbridge. He quickly disconnected the front tractor unit and got it clear of any danger.
The carriageway which was recently resurfaced was badly scorched. Only one lane has been opened at the bridge. Until repairs are completed traffic lights will control the flow of vehicles.
Police advise of delays, especially at peak times.
It is believed the fire was caused by a mechanical fault on the Tesco trailer which, along with its cargo of foodstuffs, was destroyed.
A strong wind whipped the flames and hampered the fire fighting efforts.
Twenty two firemen fought the blaze, many using breathing sets to get closer to the blaze. Wet foam was sprayed to bring the flames under control.
Five fire appliances from Aviemore and Inverness attended including two specialist appliances.
Police closed the A9 at this section until Friday afternoon. The old A9 road which
runs below was also shut after debris from the fire fell from the bridge. Traffic
was diverted via a 50-
The goods onboard were unloaded off the trailer to reduce the weight. A crane from
Moray then lifted the damaged trailer onto a low-
A Tesco spokesperson said: “We are relieved that no one was hurt and will be assisting in whatever way we can. We’re sorry for the disruption caused.”