Mumbai: A routine drive through Mumbai’s Coastal Road turned into a frightening experience on Wednesday after a car suddenly caught fire inside the northbound tunnel, forcing authorities to halt traffic and launch an emergency response. The incident triggered panic among motorists, but quick action by firefighters and traffic personnel ensured that everyone inside the tunnel was evacuated safely. No injuries or fatalities were reported.
The fire broke out while the vehicle was travelling through the tunnel, with flames and thick smoke rapidly spreading around the car. As a precaution, traffic was immediately stopped and the tunnel was temporarily closed to allow emergency teams to bring the situation under control.
Firefighters reached the spot within minutes and managed to extinguish the blaze before it could spread further. Police and traffic officials coordinated the evacuation of vehicles already inside the tunnel and diverted incoming traffic to alternate routes, leading to heavy congestion around Breach Candy and nearby stretches during the afternoon rush.
The exact cause of the fire is yet to be established. Officials said the burnt vehicle will undergo a technical inspection to determine whether the blaze was triggered by a mechanical failure, an electrical fault or another issue. An investigation has been initiated.
While the incident caused considerable disruption, authorities said the tunnel’s emergency safety systems including ventilation and fire response infrastructure functioned as intended, helping contain the situation and ensuring the safety of commuters.
The incident has also renewed attention on vehicle safety inside enclosed road tunnels, where even a small fire can quickly become hazardous because of smoke buildup. Experts often advise motorists to keep their vehicles well maintained and remain alert to warning signs such as overheating, unusual smells or smoke while driving.
This is not the first such incident on Mumbai’s Coastal Road. In September 2025, another car caught fire inside one of the tunnels, briefly disrupting traffic before the blaze was brought under control. Like Wednesday’s incident, no injuries were reported.
Traffic movement resumed after authorities declared the tunnel safe for use. Officials are expected to share more details once the investigation into the cause of the fire is completed.
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