21 FEB 2012
The CLEM7 Tunnel is open and operating as normal. Below is a summary on the incident.
RiverCity Motorway Group can confirm the CLEM7 tunnel is currently closed due to a single-vehicle incident involving a truck’s cabin catching fire in the southbound tunnel. The incident occurred at 9:48am this morning.
The CLEM7’s safety systems including the water ‘deluge’ and tunnel ventilation systems were activated as designed and successfully contained the fire.
At 9:57am the northbound tunnel was also closed to allow fire crews to access the incident in accordance with CLEM7’s emergency procedures. Both tunnels currently remain closed (at 11.45 am).
The truck driver was treated for smoke inhalation on-site and taken to hospital for observation but no other injuries occurred as a result of the incident.
Emergency services are currently on-site and working to clear the incident.
No hazardous materials or chemicals were involved or were responsible for the fire.
Approximately thirteen vehicles were blocked in the tunnel by the incident and all drivers were safely evacuated. These vehicles are currently being removed from the tunnel.
A full damage assessment will be undertaken after the truck is removed, which is expected to be in the next hour. The CLEM7 is expected to re-open by 12.30pm.
Motorists are advised to choose alternative travel routes during this time. RiverCity Motorway Group apologies for any inconvenience caused.
-ENDS-
Media - for further information please contact
Gerard Reilly, BBS, on (07) 3221 6711 or greilly@bbscommunciations.com.au
