Puttur: A parked car was gutted by fire following an electrical short circuit after a gas balloon came into contact with an overhead electric wire during a temple festival on Sunday. The incident occurred at Padumale, near the Sri Poomani–Kinnimani area and close to the Vyaghra Chamundi Daivasthana at Maindinadaka, within the limits of the Badagannur Gram Panchayat. Fortunately, no casualties were reported in the mishap.
According to local sources, the incident took place while the annual temple festival was in progress, drawing devotees and visitors to the area. The car had been parked near an electric pole inside the temple premises when the accident occurred.
How the incident unfolded
Witnesses said a gas-filled balloon from a nearby fair stall was blown by strong winds and struck an overhead electric wire. The moment the balloon came into contact with the live wire, it caused an electrical short circuit, resulting in sparks flying in different directions.
Some of these sparks reportedly reached the parked car, which was standing a short distance away from the electric pole. Within moments, the sparks ignited flammable parts of the vehicle, causing it to catch fire. Eyewitnesses described the flames spreading rapidly, leaving little time for immediate intervention.
Vehicle crashes into electric pole
Amid the blaze, the car suddenly moved forward and crashed into the electric pole near which it had been parked. Residents believe the movement may have been caused by the fire affecting the vehicle’s internal systems. The impact further aggravated the situation, as additional sparks were generated during the collision.
Within a short span of time, the vehicle was engulfed in flames. Thick smoke and fire caused panic among festival-goers and nearby residents, many of whom rushed to the scene on hearing shouts and seeing the fire.
Swift response by local residents
Local residents and temple volunteers acted promptly to control the situation. Using available resources, they managed to douse the flames before the fire could spread to nearby structures or festival installations.
Their timely action prevented a potentially larger disaster, especially considering the presence of a large crowd due to the ongoing festival. Fire officials were informed, but by the time additional assistance arrived, the fire had already been brought under control.
Damage and safety concerns
The car was partially damaged in the incident, with the front portion and interior suffering the most damage due to the fire. The exact extent of the financial loss has not yet been officially estimated.
Officials said the incident highlights the risks associated with gas balloons and overhead electric lines, particularly during festivals and fairs where temporary stalls and decorations are common. Strong winds can easily carry balloons into live wires, posing a serious fire hazard.
No casualties reported
Despite the sudden nature of the incident and the presence of people in the vicinity, no injuries or loss of life were reported. Temple authorities and residents expressed relief that the incident did not result in any casualties.
Local administration and power supply officials are expected to review safety arrangements in the area to prevent similar incidents in the future, especially during public events and festivals.
Conclusion
The fire incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safety precautions during festivals, particularly with regard to electrical infrastructure and the use of gas-filled balloons near overhead power lines. While quick action by residents prevented a major tragedy, authorities may need to enforce stricter safety norms to avoid such incidents in crowded public spaces.