An accident with a tanker carrying hazardous substances blocked the A8 motorway between Brussels, Tournai, and Lille on Friday morning near Froyennes, in Tournai.
Emergency services in Wallonia Picardy (Wapi) were alerted at 06:15 on Friday about a road accident involving a heavy goods vehicle on the A8 motorway, shortly before exit 34 Tournai-Froyennes. Just before 08:00, the motorway was closed in both directions.
For reasons unknown, the tanker overturned onto its side, partially destroying the central reservation. "The tanker was the only vehicle involved. It tipped over in the work zone chicane. The vehicle is registered in Poland and the driver was not injured," reported Lieutenant Vincent Vilain, who is overseeing the operation.
According to the Wapi emergency services, the tanker was an ADR type, indicating it was carrying hazardous materials. "It was a corrosive product. Fortunately, there were no leaks from the tank. The situation is under control," the officer confirmed.
The accident occurred in the Tournai-Lille direction. The motorway entrance at Tournai-Expo towards France was closed. Travellers heading towards France were advised to exit at Kain and use national roads. Those driving towards Brussels were advised to take the RN50.
Firefighters remain on site. "Civil protection will pump out the tank, followed by the evacuation of the corrosive substance by a specialised firm. This will take some time," concluded the lieutenant.
