On April 29, 2025, a dramatic incident unfolded on the A7 highway near Pont-de-l'Isère in the Drôme region when a truck carrying hazardous materials caught fire early in the morning. The fire, which ignited around 4:00 AM, resulted in a significant disruption of traffic in both directions between Tain-l'Hermitage and Valence, causing the highway to be closed for several hours.
The truck, identified as a semi-trailer of Czech origin, was transporting a variety of materials, including paint, lubricant, food flavoring extract, and aerosol canisters. Reports indicate that an explosion occurred in one of the truck's two tanks, prompting the need for emergency services to respond swiftly. Fortunately, both the driver and a passenger were unharmed, but the situation required immediate action to prevent further complications.
Approximately 60 firefighters were deployed to the scene to combat the flames and assess the situation. Despite the smoke that rose from the fire, officials confirmed that there was no immediate danger to nearby residential areas, as no homes were located in close proximity to the incident. However, the potential for toxic fumes necessitated a thorough response.
As the morning progressed, traffic was halted in both directions, leading to significant delays. By around 11:00 AM, authorities announced that traffic could resume in the direction of Lyon, although conditions remained challenging. Reports from Vinci Autoroutes indicated that the highway would remain congested throughout the day as crews worked to clear the wreckage and repair the road.
In the afternoon, at approximately 1:30 PM, traffic began to flow again, but only on the left lane heading towards the site of the accident. Vinci Autoroutes projected that full traffic resumption would not occur until later in the day, as ongoing repairs were necessary. The situation was further complicated by the need for detours, with drivers advised to avoid the area if possible.
Authorities recommended specific exit and entry points for vehicles to minimize congestion. Light vehicles were advised to exit at Chanas-Saint-Rambert (exit 12) and avoid entry at Tain-l’Hermitage (exit 13). For those traveling towards Lyon, the highway had been closed to traffic at the request of firefighters around 7:00 AM, and similar restrictions were in place for other nearby exits.
As the day wore on, traffic conditions continued to evolve. By mid-afternoon, Vinci reported that while some traffic had resumed, significant delays were still expected as crews worked diligently to clear the scene and ensure safety. Alternative routes were established, adding approximately 20 kilometers to travel times for those needing to circumvent the affected area.
Despite the chaos, the incident served as a reminder of the critical role emergency services play in managing hazardous situations on the road. The swift response of approximately 60 firefighters, equipped with specialized vehicles and a mobile chemical intervention unit, helped mitigate the potential risks associated with the fire.
As the situation stabilized, Vinci Autoroutes continued to monitor traffic conditions and provide updates to the public. They urged travelers to remain patient and informed, emphasizing the importance of safety and caution in the wake of such incidents.
In the aftermath of the fire, plans were already in place for a new closure of the affected section of the highway overnight, from Tuesday, April 29, to Wednesday, April 30, to facilitate further repairs and restore normal traffic flow. This proactive measure highlights the ongoing challenges faced by highway operators in maintaining safe travel conditions.
As the day concluded, officials remained optimistic that traffic would eventually return to normal, but they cautioned that disruptions could linger as recovery efforts continued. Motorists were advised to stay updated through official channels and to plan their journeys accordingly.
This incident on the A7 underscores the complexities and dangers associated with transporting hazardous materials on public highways. While no injuries were reported, the event serves as a crucial reminder of the need for stringent safety measures and the importance of rapid response teams in managing emergencies.
