Bengaluru: A red Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder was completely gutted in a fire near Sparsh Hospital, opposite the Bengaluru Police Commissioner’s office on Infantry Road, on Saturday morning. The driver escaped unharmed after stepping out of the vehicle in time.

The incident occurred at around 9.40 am when smoke and flames reportedly began emerging from the car’s engine as it was near the hospital. The driver, who was the only occupant, immediately got out, averting a potentially serious mishap.

No casualties were reported in the incident.

Fire spreads rapidly despite attempts to douse flames

According to Cubbon Park traffic police, the vehicle caught fire while travelling or positioned near Sparsh Hospital on Infantry Road. After the driver exited the car, people in the vicinity attempted to extinguish the flames.

However, the fire spread rapidly, leaving the vehicle severely damaged and eventually gutted.

Fire and emergency services personnel arrived at the scene and assessed the situation. The incident drew attention in the busy area, located opposite the office of the Bengaluru Police Commissioner.

The timely escape of the driver ensured that no injuries were reported, although the vehicle suffered extensive damage.

Cause of fire yet to be established

The exact cause of the blaze remains unknown. Officials are examining whether a battery malfunction, an electrical short circuit or another technical fault may have triggered the fire.

Police are gathering information from the driver and the vehicle owner to establish the sequence of events leading up to the incident. The cause will be determined after the necessary examination.

Vehicle fires can sometimes be associated with electrical faults or mechanical problems, but no specific cause has been confirmed in this case.

Traffic affected on busy Infantry Road

The incident disrupted traffic on Infantry Road for some time as the damaged vehicle and emergency response activity affected movement through the area.

Infantry Road is a busy stretch in central Bengaluru, and the fire near the Police Commissioner’s office and Sparsh Hospital temporarily inconvenienced road users.

Authorities assessed the situation at the spot, while the investigation focused on identifying the cause of the fire. No casualties were reported, and further details are awaited as officials examine the vehicle and gather statements.