Bantwal: A car was completely gutted after a fire broke out due to a suspected short circuit while it was in motion early Wednesday morning at Noodottu near Mutturu on the Bantwal–Edapadavu State Highway. All occupants escaped safely, preventing what could have turned into a major tragedy.
According to sources, the car was being driven by Dheeresh, a resident of Edapadavu, who was travelling with his family from Bantwal towards Edapadavu. The incident occurred during the early hours when vehicular movement on the highway was relatively low.
Technical fault noticed while driving
While nearing the Moolarapattana bridge, the driver reportedly noticed a technical fault in the car’s headlight. Initially, the issue did not appear serious, and the vehicle continued to move. However, as the car approached the Noodottu area, smoke began to emanate from the front portion of the vehicle, causing immediate concern.
Sensing imminent danger, Dheeresh promptly stopped the car on the roadside and asked all family members to get out. His timely decision ensured that everyone could move to a safe distance before the situation worsened.
Flames spread rapidly
Moments after the occupants evacuated the vehicle, flames erupted from the engine compartment and rapidly engulfed the entire car. Eyewitnesses said the fire spread quickly, leaving little time to salvage any belongings from inside the vehicle.
The blaze intensified within minutes, reducing a major portion of the car to charred remains. Thick smoke and flames were visible from a distance, drawing the attention of local residents.
Locals rush to help
Residents living near the highway rushed to the spot after noticing the fire. They alerted the fire and emergency services and also attempted to douse the flames using water brought from nearby houses. Despite their efforts, the fire could not be brought under control immediately due to its intensity.
By the time firefighting assistance arrived, nearly half of the car had already been completely burnt. The vehicle suffered extensive damage, resulting in heavy financial loss to the owner.
Cause suspected to be short circuit
Preliminary information suggests that the fire was caused by a short circuit in the vehicle’s electrical system, possibly linked to the earlier headlight malfunction. However, officials said a detailed inspection would be required to confirm the exact cause of the fire.
No injuries were reported in the incident, and no other vehicles were affected. Traffic movement on the highway was briefly slowed as onlookers gathered at the spot, but normal flow was restored soon after.
Conclusion
Though the incident resulted in significant property loss, the safe evacuation of all occupants brought relief to the family and local residents. The incident serves as a reminder to motorists to stop vehicles immediately if technical faults or smoke are noticed and to prioritise safety over continuing travel.