Two lorries, three cars gutted in multiple collision

According to police, a coconut oil-laden lorry driven by V Shankaran, 30, from Thoppur was heading to Hyderabad, when the vehicle caught fire.

“While moving through a steep gradient road near Thoppur, the vehicle caught fire and it is suspected due to the overheat of the engine. The driver, who noticed the raging fire, had immediately jumped out. Then, the lorry began to move in reverse on the steep road and rammed on a car coming behind. So, the car caught fire,” police said.

Four persons who were in the car were immediately rushed out for safety. The fire then spread out to another car and a LPG tanker lorry that were coming behind. As the tanker was empty, a major disaster was averted, police said. All the persons in the vehicles managed to escape unhurt.

Due to the mishap, traffic was disrupted on the busy hill road for more than three hours. Vehicles got lined up for few kilometres and vehicle transport resumed only at 6.30 am. The Thoppur police have registered a case and further inquiries are on.

Police added that Rs one crore worth vehicles and goods were burnt in the fire.