Blazing Tanker Turns Jorabat Into Fire Zone, Traffic Chokes on NH-27

A devastating fire erupted at Jorabat's 11th Mile in the early hours of Tuesday after a petrol-laden tanker lost control and rammed into the central divider, setting off a series of events that culminated in a massive blaze. The incident sparked panic in the area and brought vehicular movement on National Highway 27 to a complete standstill for several hours.

The tanker, bearing registration number MZ01AA9268, was reportedly heading towards Upper Assam from Guwahati when the driver lost control of the vehicle. The tanker veered off course, struck the median divider, and skidded for several metres, spilling large quantities of petrol onto the road surface.

The highly flammable fuel soon caught fire, resulting in an explosive blaze that quickly engulfed the vehicle and spread across the highway. Towering flames and thick plumes of black smoke blanketed the area, triggering fear among residents and motorists.

Firefighting teams from Dispur and nearby stations rushed to the scene. At least three fire tenders were deployed in a joint effort to contain the flames. After nearly two hours of intense firefighting, the blaze was finally brought under control.

Authorities said a major tragedy was narrowly averted as the fire came dangerously close to a nearby NRL petrol pump and several residential areas. Timely intervention by fire services prevented the flames from reaching these high-risk zones.

No casualties have been reported so far, although the condition of the driver and possible passengers remains unclear. Eyewitnesses described the scene as “apocalyptic”, with fire licking the skies and vehicles stranded on either side of the highway.

Due to the incident, vehicular movement on NH-27, a crucial arterial route, was severely affected. Traffic remained stalled for hours, with hundreds of vehicles lined up on both flanks of the highway.

Local police and emergency response teams have initiated an inquiry into the cause of the crash. Preliminary reports suggest mechanical failure or overspeeding may have led to the driver losing control.

Further updates are awaited as the investigation progresses.

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