Firefighters were forced to deploy water barriers to contain hazardous fumes after a tanker carrying hydrochloric acid overturned along Jalan Kuantan-Kemaman near the Kampung Cherating bridge on Saturday.
The incident, reported at about 7.30am, resulted in a leak from the upper section of the tanker, causing an estimated 1,000 litres of hydrochloric acid to spill and flow into a nearby mangrove swamp.
The tanker driver, who was transporting nearly 25 tonnes of the chemical from Pasir Gudang to Kemaman, sustained injuries in the crash and was taken to Hospital Kemaman for treatment before emergency personnel arrived at the scene.
Pahang Fire and Rescue Department operations officials said a team from the Gebeng Fire and Rescue Station, assisted by the Hazardous Materials (Hazmat) unit, was dispatched to the location to manage the emergency.
Upon arrival, firefighters discovered the leaking tank and immediately began efforts to prevent the spread of acid vapours towards the main roadway, highlighting the potential danger posed to road users and nearby communities.
The Department of Environment and representatives from the company involved were also contacted to assist in handling the chemical spill and coordinating the transfer of the remaining acid.
As of 1pm, operations were still ongoing with crews working to transfer the chemical from the overturned tanker into a replacement vehicle. Additional support was provided by personnel and water tanker units from the Kuantan Fire and Rescue Station.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely to minimise environmental impact and ensure public safety while clean-up efforts remain underway.
