A moving car caught fire inside the Mumbai Coastal Road tunnel on Wednesday, triggering panic among motorists and bringing traffic to a standstill after thick black smoke engulfed a section of the underground passage. Authorities temporarily suspended vehicular movement and launched a rescue operation while advising commuters to use alternate routes.

The incident occurred inside one of Mumbai's flagship infrastructure projects, designed to ease congestion and reduce travel time between South Mumbai and the western suburbs. Within minutes of the fire breaking out, dense smoke spread through the enclosed tunnel, significantly reducing visibility and creating a hazardous environment for commuters.

Motorists Evacuate Amid Thick Smoke

As smoke rapidly filled the tunnel, several motorists reportedly experienced breathing difficulties. Many drivers and passengers abandoned their vehicles and rushed towards the nearest exit on foot after realising the fire was intensifying.

Videos circulating on social media showed thick smoke blanketing the tunnel while stranded commuters attempted to move to safety. The incident caused panic among those travelling through the stretch during peak traffic hours.

Emergency Teams Rush to the Spot

Following the alert, the Mumbai Fire Brigade, police personnel and other emergency response agencies reached the site and initiated rescue and firefighting operations.

As a precautionary measure, authorities stopped traffic entering the Coastal Road tunnel from the Nariman Point side, resulting in long queues on approach roads. Firefighters worked to contain the blaze while rescue teams ensured the safe evacuation of motorists from the affected section of the tunnel.

Officials also began efforts to clear the damaged vehicle and restore normal traffic movement.

No Casualties Reported

According to preliminary information, no injuries or fatalities have been reported in the incident. Authorities said all occupants of the vehicle were evacuated safely before the fire spread further.

Emergency responders continued monitoring the tunnel to ensure that smoke levels reduced before allowing traffic to resume.

Cause of Fire Under Investigation

Officials have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the fire. Preliminary assessments suggest that a short circuit or a technical malfunction may have triggered the blaze, although the exact reason is yet to be confirmed.

The incident has once again drawn attention to emergency preparedness and fire safety protocols inside long road tunnels, particularly in high-traffic urban infrastructure projects.

Authorities are expected to examine the tunnel's ventilation, evacuation systems and emergency response mechanisms as part of the inquiry.

Meanwhile, commuters have been advised to avoid the affected route until normal traffic operations are fully restored.