Mount Evelyn residents who use the Maroondah Highway can expect to see delays and detours in place after an accident earlier today (27 January).
Maroondah Highway has been closed after an a truck hit a large diesel slick just before 10am between Victoria Road and John Street in Lilydale.
The truck was travelling towards Main Street when the incident happened, causing the driver to swerve and lose traction.
Carrying a heavy load, the truck was unable to gain control, jacknifing and landing on the opposite side of the road.
Lilydale CFA responded to the incident with the help of Chirnside Park Fire Brigade.
Crews were able to get to the scene quickly to ensure the safety of the truck driver and the passengers from the other vehicles involved, as well as prevent a fire that could have erupted due to the excess diesel that had spilled from the truck’s ruptured fuel tank.
In a post on social media, Lilydale CFA confirmed all drivers were uninjured in the crash.
The CFA placed oil soaker on the road to prevent any fires from breaking out.
Maroondah Highway has been closed to allow for the trucks removal. Drivers are urged to plan ahead with alternative routes in place and are advised to follow police direction.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was called to assess the environmental impact.
