SHILLONG, JAN 9 2026: A tourist car gutted in a fire on the Shillong‑Dawki highway on the evening of January 8 caused temporary disruption to traffic but left all passengers safe. The incident occurred near a hilly stretch of the road, a popular route for travelers visiting Meghalaya’s scenic landscapes.
Local authorities reported that the tourist car gutted unexpectedly, and the driver, along with other passengers, managed to evacuate safely before the flames spread. Emergency responders from the nearest fire station reached the site promptly and controlled the blaze. No casualties or injuries were reported, and the cause of the fire is under investigation.
The Shillong‑Dawki highway is a vital route connecting Shillong to the Dawki border area and popular with tourists traveling to scenic spots like the Umngot River. Local residents noted that while such incidents are rare, vehicles traveling on hilly roads should be maintained carefully to avoid mechanical failures that could lead to a fire. The tourist car gutted incident emphasizes the importance of regular vehicle checks.
Traffic on the highway was temporarily diverted while the burnt vehicle was removed. Authorities have advised travelers to exercise caution, particularly on winding stretches with limited visibility during the evening hours. Police and fire department officials continue to investigate the cause and have urged drivers to report unusual vehicle behavior immediately.
This tourist car gutted event highlights the importance of road safety and emergency preparedness, especially on hilly and high-traffic routes in Meghalaya. While no one was harmed, it serves as a reminder for travelers to ensure vehicles are regularly checked and emergency measures are in place.
Authorities are expected to release further details on the cause of the fire in the coming days, and residents have expressed relief that the situation did not result in injuries or property loss beyond the single vehicle.
