Blaze After Trailer Falls Off Sunki Ghat Road

Koraput | Jan 21, 2026 - A major road accident was reported on National Highway–26 at Sunki Ghat near Jodimadali in Koraput district on Tuesday, after a trailer lost control and plunged down the steep ghat section before catching fire. Fortunately, the driver and helper narrowly escaped with their lives, averting what could have been a fatal mishap.

According to reports, the incident occurred while the trailer was negotiating a sharp curve on the ghat road. The vehicle reportedly went out of control, veered off the highway and fell down the slope. Soon after the fall, the trailer caught fire, triggering panic among commuters and locals in the area. Thick smoke and flames could be seen from a distance, causing fear and chaos along the busy highway stretch.

Despite the sudden blaze, the driver and helper showed presence of mind and managed to jump out of the vehicle before the fire spread, escaping without injuries. On receiving information, the Potangi Fire Service team rushed to the spot and immediately initiated firefighting operations. Fire personnel worked for a considerable time to bring the blaze under control and to prevent it from spreading further.

The accident led to temporary disruption of traffic on NH-26, one of the key routes connecting Koraput with neighbouring regions. A large number of local residents gathered at the site to witness the rescue and firefighting efforts.

Authorities later confirmed that no casualties were reported, although the trailer was completely gutted in the fire. Police have launched an investigation into the incident. Preliminary findings indicate that overspeeding and loss of control on the steep and curvy ghat road may have caused the accident. Traffic was restored after clearance operations were completed.