A tragic incident unfolded on the Delhi–Jaipur expressway near Rajiv Chowk, Gurugram, in the early hours of Tuesday, when an auto-rickshaw driver lost his life after a suspected explosion set his vehicle ablaze. The incident occurred between 1.15 am and 1.40 am while the three-wheeler was heading towards Jaipur.
Vehicle catches fire mid-journey
According to The Hindustan Times, the auto-rickshaw, registered in Gurugram, suddenly caught fire while in motion. Passersby alerted authorities and helped pull the driver out of the burning vehicle before emergency teams arrived.
Firefighters managed to bring the flames under control within 30 minutes, but by then, the driver had suffered severe injuries. He was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he later succumbed to over 70% burn injuries. No passengers were inside the vehicle at the time of the incident.
Preliminary investigation points to a possible explosion involving the vehicle’s CNG cylinder. Officials noted that the cylinder was missing from the charred remains, raising suspicion that it may have triggered the fire. Police believe the sudden nature of the explosion gave the driver little time to react or escape.
Also Read | What is India’s ‘Sudarshan Chakra’? Fourth S-400 unit due by mid-May after key Op Sindoor role
Identity yet to be confirmed
Authorities are still working to identify the deceased. Transport records indicate that the vehicle’s registered owner is from Noida, but he reportedly sold it in 2019. Investigators suspect the auto changed hands multiple times without a Delhi LG checks NDMC control centre readiness amid heatwave proper ownership transfer.
Also Read | Delhi LG checks NDMC control centre readiness amid heatwave
A photograph and contact number found on the vehicle’s rear are now being used as leads to trace the driver’s identity. The Gurugram Police has launched a detailed investigation to determine the exact cause of the explosion and track the chain of ownership of the vehicle. Officials are also examining whether safety norms related to CNG vehicles were violated.
