A tractor trolley laden with straw caught fire in the Garhshankar area of Hoshiarpur district on Wednesday, causing panic among locals. The incident occurred near a busy road, but no casualties were reported as the driver managed to escape unhurt.
Incident Details
The trolley was carrying a large quantity of straw when the fire broke out suddenly. Eyewitnesses reported seeing flames engulfing the vehicle within minutes. The driver, identified as a local farmer, jumped off the trolley and alerted nearby residents. Fire tenders from Garhshankar fire station arrived at the scene and extinguished the blaze after an hour-long effort.
Response and Investigation
Fire officials stated that the cause of the fire is being investigated, but preliminary reports suggest a short circuit or a discarded cigarette butt might have triggered the incident. The straw was completely destroyed, but the tractor remained partially damaged. Police have registered a case and are probing further.
Local authorities have urged farmers to exercise caution while transporting dry straw, especially during the summer months when temperatures are high. Similar incidents have been reported in the region in the past, highlighting the need for safety measures.
