A dramatic accident on the busy Bengaluru-Mysuru Expressway resulted in a sports utility vehicle (SUV) being completely gutted by fire on Sunday. The incident, which caused significant alarm among commuters, occurred near the Ramanagara district stretch of the high-speed corridor.
Sequence of Events: Crash and Immediate Aftermath
The chain of events began when the driver of the SUV, identified as Syed Sohail, reportedly lost control of the vehicle. According to preliminary information from the Ramanagara police, the SUV was traveling at a high speed when it collided with the highway's median divider. The impact of the crash was severe, causing immediate damage to the front section of the vehicle.
Shortly after the collision, the damaged SUV caught fire. The flames quickly engulfed the entire vehicle, turning it into a blazing wreck on the expressway. Thick black smoke billowed from the site, creating a hazardous and chaotic scene for other motorists on the crucial connectivity route between Bengaluru and Mysuru.
Miraculous Escape and Swift Response
Despite the terrifying crash and the ensuing inferno, a major tragedy was averted. Miraculously, the driver, Syed Sohail, managed to escape from the burning vehicle without any serious injuries. His swift exit from the SUV before the fire spread uncontrollably was a critical factor in his survival.
Upon receiving alerts, personnel from the Ramanagara police station and local fire emergency services rushed to the spot. Firefighters worked diligently to douse the raging flames and prevent the fire from causing any further danger. Their prompt action ensured the situation was brought under control, though the SUV was reduced to a charred shell.
Traffic Disruptions and Ongoing Investigation
The accident led to considerable traffic disruptions on the expressway for a period of time. Vehicles were forced to slow down and navigate carefully past the accident site, causing congestion. Authorities worked to clear the wreckage and restore normal traffic flow as quickly as possible.
The Ramanagara police have registered a case and are conducting a detailed investigation into the exact cause of the accident. While initial reports point to high speed and a loss of control as primary factors, officials are examining all angles. The investigation will also look into the mechanical condition of the vehicle to determine if any failure contributed to the crash or the subsequent fire.
Raising Concerns Over Expressway Safety
This fiery accident has once again brought the spotlight on road safety measures along the Bengaluru-Mysuru Expressway. The 10-lane access-controlled highway, designed for high-speed travel, has witnessed several accidents since its inauguration. This incident underscores the persistent risks associated with speeding and the devastating consequences that can follow a momentary lapse in control.
It serves as a stark reminder for motorists to adhere strictly to speed limits, maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, and ensure their cars are in good mechanical condition before embarking on long highway journeys. The escape of the driver in this case was fortunate, but the outcome could have been far more tragic.
