Lorry carrying hay catches fire, travels 20 km before blaze is put out on NH stretch in Kerala

Thrissur, Kerala: A lorry carrying hay caught fire on the Chalakudy stretch of the national highway on Saturday, causing major traffic disruptions along the Thrissur–Ernakulam route. The vehicle travelled about 20 kilometres while ablaze before fire and rescue teams brought it under control. Authorities diverted vehicles to alternative routes to ease congestion.

Driver keeps moving despite flames

The incident happened at around 3 pm. The lorry was travelling from Kottayam to Thumbarassery in Kuzhur, near Mala, to unload when it caught fire shortly before reaching its destination.

Despite the flames, the driver continued driving and did not stop, even after bystanders urged him to. Stopping was not possible, as flames could have spread further, the driver reportedly told fire officials. Some reports suggested the driver was unsure how to handle the situation, while others said stopping might have allowed the fire to spread quickly to the engine and lorry body. Police are expected to question the driver about the incident.

Fire brigade intervenes, prevents major disaster

Facing heavy traffic near the Chalakudy bridge, the driver turned onto a service road towards Ernakulam. The lorry briefly went off course near Koratty Convent School but returned to the national highway following guidance from locals. Other vehicles moved aside to allow the flaming lorry to pass safely.

Over intimation by locals, fire and rescue team from Mala followed the vehicle, joined by units from Chalakudy and Puthukkad. The fire was finally extinguished near D Cinemas before the Chalakudy bridge. The quick response of the fire brigade helped avert a major disaster. 

The hay was pushed off the lorry onto the NH to help contain the fire. Auto drivers, loading workers, and locals cleared the road so other vehicles could pass safely.