Pregnant woman's tragic death in Perambra car fire accident; Forensic examination to begin

KOZHIKODE: The forensic department and the police launched an investigation into the tragic death of a pregnant woman caught stuck inside a Swift car that caught fire in Perambra. Along with the cause of the accident, the officials will also check whether there was petrol, diesel or any other flammable substances in the car.

The interior of the car was burnt and destroyed. Parts like the bonnet and engine were not affected much. The investigating officer, Meppayur Inspector A. Ajeesh, said that the cause of the fire can only be known after receiving the forensic report. Eight-month pregnant Sona (28) was charred to death in the accident that took place on the Kakkara Mukku road in Cheruvannur, Perambra, at around 9 pm on Friday. The accident occurred when Sona was returning home after a routine checkup at the hospital.

Sona’s husband, Rajinlal, who was driving the car, is undergoing treatment for serious burns. Rajinlal, who was abroad, returned home a month ago. The couple were waiting for their first child after three years of marriage. Sona is the daughter of Sreenivasan and Vasantha of Paleri Kumbilappam. Her brother is Sonu.

The police and the Motor Vehicles Department said that the number of vehicles catching fire while running is increasing in the state. Short circuits are the main reason. Many people change lights, horns, cameras, and music systems as part of customising the vehicle. For this, wires are cut and lengthened. This can cause the wires to heat up in some parts and lose insulation, leading to short circuits and fires.

Precautions

1. Inspect the vehicle at regular intervals.

2. Ensure that the wiring is secure.

3. Do not make any changes, including to the wiring.

4. Service only at authorised institutions.

5. Avoid substandard electrical appliances.

6. Check the fuel tank.