Tesco lorry engulfed by fire on A9 'melted into tarmac'

A Tesco lorry engulfed in flames on the A9 “melted into the tarmac”, forcing the road to be closed for hours.

The road south of Dunkeld was closed in both directions on Wednesday morning due to a vehicle fire around 6.20am.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service were called and crews from three appliances were sent to the scene.

Firefighters remained on scene throughout the day to dampen down the flames, and the road was reopened at around 5.39pm.

Burnt out lorry after A9 incident Auto Services Perth

Auto Services Perth posted pictures of the recovered lorry on social media, describing it as a difficult task due to the HGV “melting into the tarmac”.

Crews said the fire reignited while the lorry was on the recovery truck.

A post read: “Busy day for our heavy recovery team. A burnt-out lorry caused chaos on the A9 near Dunkeld.

“A fantastic effort from all involved to clear the road. A real task when it melts to the tarmac!

“Big thanks to the SFRS for dealing with the fire, assisting on scene, escorting us back to Perth and putting the fire out again (twice!) when it re-ignited on the back of our truck.”

Damage to A9 after lorry engulfed in flames Auto Services Perth

It is understood Tesco supported emergency services following the incident involving one of its vehicles, which has now been recovered.

First Minister John Swinney, the MSP for the area, said he was “relieved” no injuries had been reported as a result.

“I am grateful to the emergency services for their quick intervention and the steps they have taken to keep the public safe,” he said.

“I am relieved that there have been no injuries as a result of this incident, and I would ask drivers to follow the guidance laid out by Police Scotland to avoid the area and to follow diversions.”