BMW Car Catches Fire on Mohali Airport Road, Driver Flees Scene
Panic gripped commuters on Mohali Airport Road on Sunday afternoon after a speeding BMW car caught fire and was completely gutted within minutes. The driver managed to jump out in time, but the luxury vehicle was reduced to ashes, causing a brief disruption to traffic on the busy stretch.
Eyewitness Accounts Describe Terrifying Blaze
According to eyewitnesses, the car was traveling from New Chandigarh towards the airport when sparks were suddenly seen emerging from it. Within moments, thick smoke started billowing out, and the vehicle erupted into a ball of fire. Some witnesses also reported hearing loud explosive sounds as the fire intensified, adding to the chaos and fear among onlookers.
Timeline and Police Response
The incident occurred around 2:45pm near the TDI area. ASI Sukhwinder Singh, a PCR official from Balongi police station, stated that by the time the police team reached the spot, the vehicle had already been destroyed. Both the front and rear number plates were completely incinerated in the blaze, making immediate identification of the car difficult. The driver reportedly abandoned the vehicle and fled the scene soon after the fire broke out, leaving authorities to piece together the details.
Investigation Challenges and Initial Findings
Police officials noted that due to the absence of number plates, it is yet to be confirmed whether the vehicle is registered in Mohali, Chandigarh, or Panchkula. "The owner will be identified through the engine number," an official added. Preliminary investigation has indicated that the vehicle is registered in the name of Surender Singh, with an address in Mohali. However, the identity and whereabouts of the driver at the time of the incident remain unknown and are under active investigation.
Fire Department Suspicions and Response
Fire department officials suspect that the blaze may have originated in the engine compartment, which possibly led to the subsequent explosions. A fire brigade team rushed to the spot upon receiving information and brought the fire under control after nearly an hour, though the car was already completely gutted by that time. The intense heat and rapid spread of the flames made it challenging for responders to salvage any part of the vehicle.
Ongoing Investigations and Traffic Impact
Police and fire department teams are continuing to investigate the exact cause of the fire, focusing on mechanical failures or other potential factors. The incident briefly disrupted traffic on the busy Mohali Airport Road, causing delays and concern among travelers and local residents. Authorities are urging anyone with additional information to come forward as they work to fully understand the circumstances surrounding this alarming event.
