Kokrajhar (Assam), 17 February (HS): Panic gripped the Gurufela area under Gossaigaon subdivision after a massive fire broke out in an oil tanker on National Highway 27 on Tuesday.

According to reports, the oil tanker suddenly caught fire, and within moments the blaze intensified, sending towering flames and thick plumes of smoke into the sky. The fire was visible from a considerable distance, triggering fear among residents and commuters in the vicinity.

Upon receiving information, a police team led by Kokrajhar District Crime Branch Superintendent of Police Aziza Gulnoor rushed to the spot. She was accompanied by Gossaigaon subdivision police officer Monturam Bora and a large contingent of security personnel. The police cordoned off the area as a precautionary measure and regulated traffic movement to prevent further risk.

Several fire tenders from the Fire and Emergency Services Department also reached the scene and launched an operation to bring the blaze under control. Till the filing of this report, firefighters were engaged in efforts to completely douse the flames.

The incident led to major traffic disruption on National Highway-27, resulting in a long vehicular queue. The administration diverted vehicles through alternative routes to ensure safety and ease congestion.

The exact cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained. Police have initiated an investigation and are examining possible technical faults or other reasons behind the incident. No casualties have been reported so far.--------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash