Bengaluru: 25-year-old burnt alive as massive inferno guts EV showroom; short-circuit suspected

A devastating fire broke out at My EV Stores in Bengaluru's Rajajinagar at approximately 5:30 PM on Tuesday, leaving one person dead and reducing the showroom to ashes. The blaze, reportedly triggered by a short-circuit in one of the electric scooters, rapidly spread through the entire facility, destroying around 45 electric vehicles (EVs) housed inside.

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Despite the swift response of two fire tenders, their efforts to douse the flames proved ineffective against the intense blaze. Firefighters worked tirelessly to bring the situation under control but could not save 25-year-old salesgirl Priya, who tragically succumbed to severe burns and was burnt alive. Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic and chaos as smoke billowed from the showroom, with bystanders and emergency responders struggling to contain the damage.

This incident raises critical questions about the safety of electric vehicles, particularly regarding fire hazards. While EVs are generally considered safe and are subject to rigorous safety standards, incidents of battery-related fires have been reported globally. Lithium-ion batteries, commonly used in EVs, can be susceptible to thermal runaway if damaged, overcharged, or improperly manufactured, leading to fires.

Experts stress the need for stricter safety protocols, robust battery management systems, and regular maintenance to minimize risks. As electric mobility becomes increasingly mainstream, such incidents highlight the importance of ensuring that fire safety measures and emergency response protocols evolve alongside technology.