Kundapura, January 31, 2026: A car suddenly caught fire while in motion on the Hemmadi-Kollur State Highway near Sharke Cross in Vondse village on Saturday morning, reducing the vehicle to ashes within minutes.

The car belonged to Bhaskar Achar, a resident of Bijadi. He was returning from Alur towards Kundapura after work when, around 10:00 AM, thick smoke began emanating from the front of the vehicle accompanied by a loud sound. Alerted by the smoke, Bhaskar immediately pulled over to the roadside.

By the time he stopped, the fire had intensified rapidly. Local residents attempted to douse the flames, but their efforts failed, and the entire car was gutted within a short time. Fortunately, Bhaskar managed to exit the vehicle safely and escaped without any injuries.

Preliminary information suggests the fire may have started due to a short circuit. Firefighters from Kundapur Fire and Emergency Services, along with personnel from Kollur Police Station, reached the spot and conducted an inspection.