The Indore EV showroom fire broke out early Friday morning in the Lasudia area near Khalsa Chowk, creating panic as thick smoke engulfed a multi-storey building. The blaze erupted in an electric vehicle showroom located on the ground floor, quickly spreading smoke to upper residential floors where around 20 people from six families were trapped.

Fire officials and local residents carried out a coordinated rescue operation, ensuring all occupants were safely evacuated. Preliminary reports suggest a short circuit may have triggered the fire, though an official investigation is underway.

Short Circuit Suspected

Preliminary findings indicate that the Indore EV showroom fire may have been caused by a short circuit in the ground-floor electric vehicle showroom. The fire spread rapidly, filling the building with dense smoke within minutes.

Residents on the upper floors were asleep when the incident began. Many woke up struggling to breathe as smoke entered their flats. Panic spread as the main staircase became inaccessible due to flames and heavy smoke.

Neighbours Lead Rescue

The most critical role during the Indore EV showroom fire was played by neighbouring residents. People from an adjacent multi-storey building immediately responded after hearing screams for help.

Temporary ladders were placed between the two buildings, and ropes were arranged by tying them to windows and railings. Some residents climbed across the ladders, while others were carefully lowered using ropes to the adjoining building’s terrace. Quick thinking by neighbours helped prevent what could have been a major tragedy.

Firefighters Contain Blaze

Fire brigade teams reached the spot shortly after receiving the alert. After nearly one hour of intense effort, firefighters managed to bring the Indore EV showroom fire under control using two water tankers.

Officials confirmed that the flames did not reach the residential flats, preventing damage to household belongings. However, all electric two-wheelers stored inside the showroom were completely destroyed.

Residents Describe Panic

Survivors said they were asleep when loud noises and commotion woke them up. Many initially had no idea about the scale of the fire until smoke filled their rooms.

Some residents managed to reach balconies and windows, where they were guided by neighbours to safety. After the evacuation, most affected families temporarily shifted to relatives’ homes or nearby acquaintances.

Safety Questions Raised

The Indore EV showroom fire has once again raised concerns about fire safety standards in buildings housing commercial units on lower floors. Initial suspicion of a short circuit highlights the need for stricter electrical safety audits.

Authorities are expected to inspect wiring systems, fire exits, and compliance measures in similar buildings in the area. A detailed investigation will determine the exact cause and any lapses involved.

Past EV Incidents

This incident comes shortly after other fire-related accidents involving electric vehicles in the city, raising broader concerns about EV safety and charging infrastructure.

Such recurring cases have prompted discussions around mandatory fire safety protocols for EV showrooms and residential-commercial mixed buildings.

A major fire broke out at the Sales Tax (State Tax) office in Khandwa on Sunday afternoon, causing extensive damage to the building and destroying crucial government records. The office, located opposite the district jail, was quickly engulfed in flames, sending thick black smoke into the sky and alarming nearby residents.

Fire Breaks Out Suddenly in Afternoon

The incident occurred around 2 PM when locals noticed flames and heavy smoke rising from the building. They immediately alerted emergency services by calling Dial 112. Police personnel from the nearby Kotwali station were the first to reach the scene and began initial safety measures.

Holiday Prevents Casualties

Fortunately, being a Sunday, the office was closed at the time of the incident. This significantly reduced the risk of casualties, as no officials or staff members were present inside the building. Authorities confirmed that the situation could have been far more serious if the fire had occurred on a working day.

Possible Cause Linked to Negligence

Preliminary reports suggest that the fire may have originated from burning dry bushes in the premises. It is believed that the fire spread rapidly due to strong winds, eventually reaching the building and turning into a major blaze. However, some officials have also indicated that an electrical short circuit cannot be ruled out and remains under investigation.

Firefighting Efforts Intensified

Within 30 minutes of receiving the alert, three fire brigade vehicles reached the location and began efforts to control the fire. Firefighters worked intensively to prevent the flames from spreading further and to bring the situation under control.

Severe Damage to Records and Property

The fire caused significant damage to office infrastructure, including furniture, documents, and equipment. Reports indicate that the record room was completely destroyed, resulting in the loss of important files. However, the computer room reportedly remained safe, preventing a complete loss of digital data.

Office Structure and Importance

The two-storey building was constructed recently and became operational in June 2023. It housed both district-level and divisional offices, handling key functions related to sales tax and GST operations in the region.

Official Statement on Loss

Assistant Commissioner Jyoti Brahme stated that the office handled all major tax-related work and that the extent of damage is currently being assessed. While initial reports suggest widespread destruction, officials are still verifying whether any records can be recovered.

Investigation Underway

Authorities, along with fire department officials, are now conducting a detailed investigation to determine the exact cause of the fire. A full damage assessment report is expected soon.