Pune: A horrific incident occurred in Hinjewadi when a moving Tempo Traveller caught fire, leading to chaos and panic among the passengers. The incident took place near the Wipro company when flames suddenly erupted near the driver’s seat. Sensing the danger, the driver immediately jumped out of the vehicle, leaving it uncontrolled.
With no one at the wheel, the tempo continued to speed forward while the fire quickly spread inside. Thick smoke filled the cabin, making it difficult for the passengers to breathe. Fear gripped everyone as they desperately sought a way to escape. Some passengers managed to jump out through the door, while others struggled to find an exit.
Vishwanath Jori, one of the passengers, was seated in the middle row of the tempo. As the fire spread, he realized the urgency of the situation. When the vehicle crashed into a road divider near the Wipro company, its speed reduced slightly. Seizing the moment, Jori slid open a window and leaped out of the moving vehicle.
"I survived only because of luck. The situation inside was terrifying, and escaping seemed impossible. But I had no choice. As soon as I jumped, I hit the ground hard, injuring my head, hands, and legs," Jori said, recalling the horrifying ordeal. He is currently receiving treatment at a hospital in Hinjewadi.
Jori, a resident of Shantivan Society in Kothrud, works as a driver at Vyoma Graphics and was on his way to work for his second shift. The tempo was used daily by a group of workers who were familiar with each other. Unfortunately, not everyone managed to escape in time. Four passengers sitting in the rear seats could not make it out, Jori said, his voice choking with emotion.