Chemical spill from truck collision closes Régis Bittencourt Highway

A collision between two heavy cargo trucks on the Régis Bittencourt Highway caused a significant chemical spill near Cajati, São Paulo, on Sunday. The accident occurred around 12:30 PM at kilometer 512 when a truck transporting butyl glycol, a toxic organic liquid, struck the rear of a container truck.

The impact caused fissures in the chemical containers, resulting in the leakage of approximately 500 liters of the substance onto the roadway. Emergency responders, including the Fire Department, worked to isolate the area and contain the spill to prevent the toxic liquid from reaching nearby vegetation or water sources. Cetesb was notified to monitor the situation and ensure no severe environmental damage occurred.

The incident led to the closure of lanes heading toward the capital, creating traffic jams spanning approximately 15 kilometers. The highway was eventually reopened around 4:50 PM after a specialized chemical emergency company completed the transfer of the damaged containers and cleared the debris. No injuries were reported in the accident, and authorities confirmed there was no soil contamination.