Punjab Newsline | Kaithal
A massive fire broke out on the Chandigarh-Hisar National Highway near Kalayat late Thursday night after an ethanol tanker collided with a stationary truck carrying paddy. The tanker exploded following the collision, engulfing both vehicles in flames and killing the tanker driver.
A major accident took place near a village in the Kalayat area on the Chandigarh-Hisar National Highway late Thursday night when an ethanol tanker collided with a truck loaded with paddy. The impact triggered a massive explosion in the tanker, setting both vehicles on fire.
The deceased has been identified as the tanker driver, who was reportedly a resident of Rajasthan.
According to preliminary information, the driver of the paddy-laden truck had stepped out of his vehicle to check the tyre pressure. Meanwhile, a speeding ethanol tanker approaching from behind reportedly lost control and rammed into the stationary truck.
The collision was so severe that the tanker exploded, and within moments, both vehicles were engulfed in flames.
The loud explosion and towering flames triggered panic among local residents and commuters passing through the area.
After receiving information about the incident, Kalayat Police Station SHO Randeep Singh rushed to the spot along with a police team. He said the flames were extremely intense, prompting authorities to call in five to six fire tenders to control the blaze.
After considerable efforts, firefighters managed to bring the fire completely under control.
Police took possession of the deceased driver's body and initiated further legal proceedings. An investigation into the incident is underway.
