A tractor-trolley transporting paddy straw caught fire near Adda Sikri on Begowal Road in Nadala of Kapurthala district, causing panic among commuters and leading to major traffic disruption on the road.
The incident occurred while the trolley was passing through the area, with the blaze quickly spreading through the dry straw. Thick smoke engulfed the surroundings, forcing vehicles to halt and causing long traffic snarls on the busy road.
On receiving information about the incident, two fire brigade vehicles rushed to the spot and launched an operation to control the blaze. Local residents and passersby also assisted the fire personnel in extinguishing it.
Tractor-trolley driver Ali said he was transporting paddy straw from a dump near Dolowal Pass to Bhogpur Mill when the trolley suddenly caught fire near Adda Sikri. Within moments, the flames engulfed the entire load of straw.
Due to the fire, the traffic movement on Begowal Road remained affected for long as vehicles were stranded on both sides of the road.
Fire brigade officials continued efforts to bring the fire under control till the filing of the report. The exact cause of the fire could not be ascertained immediately.
