Indore: Electric car charging sparks massive fire, pregnant woman among 8 of family dead; jammed digital lock prevented escape
A tragic fire in Indore triggered by a suspected short circuit during electric car charging killed eight persons, including a pregnant woman
PTC Web Desk: A devastating fire, reportedly triggered by a short circuit during the charging of an electric car, claimed eight lives and left four others injured in Madhya Pradesh’s Indore in the early hours of Wednesday.
The incident occurred between 3.30 am and 4 am in the Greater Brijeshwari Colony near Bengali Square, where flames rapidly engulfed a three-storey residential building. According to preliminary police findings, the fire is suspected to have started while a Tata Punch electric vehicle was being charged inside the premises.
The victims have been identified as members of a business family, including rubber trader Manoj Pugalia and his pregnant daughter-in-law Simran. Six of the deceased were relatives who had recently arrived from Kishanganj in Bihar and were staying at the house.
Authorities said the situation worsened when the fire spread to LPG cylinders stored inside the building. The cylinders began exploding one after another, intensifying the blaze and causing a partial collapse of the structure. The powerful explosions also hindered rescue efforts.
A critical factor that contributed to the high casualty count was the failure of the home’s digital locking system. As the fire spread rapidly, those inside the house were unable to unlock the doors and escape, trapping several occupants.
Local residents alleged that the fire brigade response was delayed, with fire tenders reaching the spot nearly an hour after the alarm was raised. By the time emergency services arrived, the fire had already caused massive destruction.
The final rites of the victims were carried out at Tilak Nagar crematorium, where seven pyres were lit simultaneously. The body of a child was buried separately.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep grief over the incident and announced an ex gratia of Rs 2 lakh for the families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 for the injured.
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav also extended condolences and termed the incident a serious warning. He stated that the accident has raised new concerns regarding electric vehicle charging safety and ordered a detailed investigation.
“The tragedy highlights emerging risks associated with modern technologies. While digital locks and electric vehicles are essential conveniences, safety awareness and precautions are equally important,” the Chief Minister said.
Officials have begun a comprehensive probe to ascertain the exact cause of the fire and to evaluate safety protocols related to electric vehicle charging infrastructure in residential areas.