Image: Paul-Emile Bouchy / Lorraine News
An exceptional convoy carrying a massive boiler overturned on Monday, February 24, 2025, at approximately 2 p.m. while crossing a bridge on rue Gabriel-Fauré in Jarville-la-Malgrange, Meurthe-et-Moselle. The incident has forced the closure of the bridge and disrupted traffic along the Marne-Rhine canal. Recovery operations are set to begin on Friday, February 28.
Heavy Lifting Operation Underway
A specialized crane will be deployed to remove the 165-ton vehicle, which measures 30 meters in length, 6.5 meters in width, and 7.5 meters in height. Initially, plans involved using two cranes, but after further evaluation, a single lattice boom crane will be sufficient. This type of crane, frequently employed in wind turbine and port construction projects, will be installed on Thursday, February 27, and removed once operations conclude on Saturday, March 1.
The accident occurred while the truck, transporting a boiler that had arrived by boat, was en route from the port of Frouard to the Novacarb factory. The vehicle came to rest on the bridge railing, preventing it from plunging into the canal below. Authorities have closed the bridge, towpath, and canal navigation routes until the operation is completed.
Driver Injured in the Incident
The driver, a 22-year-old man, sustained a head injury after jumping from the cab through the right door as the truck began to tip. Fearing it would fall into the water, he acted swiftly but suffered injuries in the process. Emergency responders transported him to a nearby hospital for medical attention.
Significant Disruption to Traffic and Shipping
The bridge closure has affected both road and waterway traffic, with authorities urging alternative routes. The removal of the convoy is expected to be a delicate and time-consuming process, given the scale of the cargo and the weight involved. Experts anticipate that lifting and securing the truck could take several days.
Industry Response and Safety Considerations
This incident raises questions about the challenges involved in transporting oversized cargo and the infrastructure’s ability to handle such extreme loads. The logistics industry continues to evaluate risk mitigation measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future. Authorities are investigating the exact cause of the accident to determine whether road conditions, vehicle stability, or external factors played a role.
For now, all eyes are on the upcoming lifting operation, which will be crucial in restoring normalcy to the area.
Source: Lorraine News
