Bhubaneswar, 12 August (H.S.): A family from Purulia, West Bengal, narrowly escaped with minor injuries after their car caught fire following a road accident near the NH-16 Cuttack–Tangi Nirgundi overbridge on Tuesday.
According to officials, the incident occurred when the car collided with a truck that had suddenly braked. The impact caused the vehicle’s engine to overheat, triggering a fire that quickly engulfed the car. The vehicle was completely destroyed in the blaze.
Debadutta Das, who was driving the car, recounted the terrifying moment: “The truck ahead of us suddenly applied brakes, and we couldn’t stop in time. Our car hit the rear of the truck and caught fire almost immediately. There were five of us, and thankfully, everyone managed to get out in time. I suffered some neck injuries, but we’re all safe.”
The Choudwar Fire Brigade responded swiftly, bringing the fire under control and preventing further damage. Choudwar Traffic Police officer Ranjan Dora confirmed that no serious injuries were reported.
“When the car hit the vehicle in front, the heated engine caught fire,” Dora said. “Our teams, along with the NHAI and Fire Department, responded quickly. All passengers were safely evacuated, and we are making arrangements to ensure the family’s onward journey to Puri.”
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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda
