A fire has caused significant damage at ARETE International, Nepal’s first Tesla service centre, located in Tangal, Kathmandu. The incident occurred just past noon on Friday, leading to substantial property damage and a disruption in operations.
According to police reports, the blaze began on the ground floor of the Tesla service centre in Naxal. The fire quickly spread to the first floor of the one-and-a-half-storied building, where it affected several areas, including the three charging ports designated for Tesla electric vehicles. The damage was substantial, with numerous parts of Tesla vehicles and various documents scattered across the floor amidst broken glass.
Fortunately, no Tesla vehicles were harmed as a result of the fire. Two cars that were present in the showroom at the time of the incident were swiftly driven to a secure location, ensuring their safety. According to Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Indra Subedi from the Maligaun Police Circle, an initial assessment suggests that the fire might have been caused by a short circuit in the electrical wiring.
The fire has been successfully extinguished, but the cause remains under investigation. The police are conducting a thorough assessment of the damage and gathering evidence to determine the precise cause of the incident. DSP Subedi confirmed that while the physical damage to the property is significant, the immediate risk to human life and the vehicles was mitigated thanks to quick action.
The aftermath of the fire reveals a scene of chaos within the showroom. Parts of Tesla vehicles and various documents were found strewn across the building, alongside shards of glass from broken windows and fixtures. The fire’s impact extends beyond physical damage, potentially affecting ongoing service and maintenance operations at the centre.
The incident at ARETE International highlights the challenges and risks associated with managing high-value assets and electrical systems in commercial settings. As the investigation continues, both the authorities and the service centre management will work to understand the cause and prevent future occurrences. The potential for electrical faults in such high-profile service centres underscores the need for stringent safety measures and regular maintenance checks.