SNT Departmental Truck Catches Fire Near Kalijhora, Investigation Underway

A fire broke out in a departmental truck belonging to the Sikkim Nationalised Transport (SNT) early this morning at approximately 6:45 AM near Kalijhora, West Bengal. The vehicle, bearing registration number SK01D4234, was en route to Siliguri for loading when the incident occurred.

The cause of the fire remains unknown, though an initial assumption suggests it may have been triggered by an electrical fault possibly leading to a short circuit within the vehicle.

According to the driver, Mr. Krishna Kumar Pradhan, he was alerted by a vehicle trailing behind him that flames were visible at the rear of his truck. He immediately halted the vehicle and attempted to respond, but the fire spread rapidly, giving him minimal time to react and escape safely.

The Kalimpong Fire Station was informed promptly, and Junior Engineers from the Rangpo Depot along with the T.I. from Siliguri are on their way to the scene to assess the damage and investigate further.

Fortunately, the truck is covered under a first-class insurance policy, which is expected to help cover the losses incurred.

No injuries have been reported so far. Further updates are awaited as officials reach the site.