- A fire in Indore killed seven people due to a suspected short circuit at an EV charging point
- An electric car caught fire overnight, spreading flames to a three-storey building
- Stored LPG cylinders exploded, causing structural damage and trapping residents inside
A devastating fire in Indore early Wednesday morning has claimed seven lives, bringing the spotlight on electric vehicle (EV) charging safety in residential areas. The incident took place near Bengali Square in the Tilak Nagar locality, where a suspected short circuit at an EV charging point triggered a massive blaze.
According to initial findings, an electric car was left plugged in for overnight charging outside the residence of the Pugalia family. Around 4:00 am, a suspected electrical fault led to an explosion at the charging point, setting the vehicle on fire. The flames quickly spread from the car into the three-storey building, trapping those inside and leaving little time to react.
The situation escalated further due to the presence of multiple LPG cylinders stored inside the house. As the fire intensified, several cylinders exploded in quick succession, causing structural damage and partial collapse of the building. The powerful blasts and dense smoke turned the home into a death trap.
Authorities also noted that flammable materials, including polymer-related substances, were stored inside the house, which may have intensified the blaze. Rescue efforts were further complicated by electronic door locks that failed during the power outage, delaying access for emergency teams.
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District Collector Shivam Verma confirmed that the fire broke out between 3:30 am and 4:30 am and that a detailed investigation is underway. The incident has raised serious concerns about EV charging practices at home, especially in environments lacking proper electrical safety and ventilation.
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EV Safety Tips: How to Prevent Such Incidents
Use Certified Charging Equipment Only
Always use manufacturer-approved chargers and avoid third-party or low-quality charging setups, which are more prone to short circuits.
Install Dedicated Electrical Circuits
EV chargers should be connected to a dedicated circuit with proper earthing and circuit breakers to handle high loads safely.
Avoid Overnight Unattended Charging
While EVs are designed for overnight charging, faulty wiring or uncertified setups increase risks. Ensure your system is professionally installed.
Keep Charging Area Clear of Flammable Materials
Never store LPG cylinders, chemicals, or combustible items near charging points or parked vehicles.
Regular Inspection and Maintenance
Periodically check wiring, sockets, and connectors for wear, overheating, or damage. Preventive maintenance can avoid major failures.