Tragic Accident at Dumka: Gas-Laden Truck Catches Fire After Collision

A devastating accident occurred in Dumka when a gas-laden truck collided with a trailer, leading to a massive fire that engulfed multiple vehicles. The incident resulted in one fatality and several injuries, with victims rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment. Firefighters struggled to control the blaze, which caused panic in the area. Investigations are underway to determine the truck's route and the cause of the collision. This tragic event highlights the dangers associated with transporting hazardous materials on public roads.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 5, 2026, 00:41 IST

Dumka Collision Leads to Fire

Dumka witnessed a tragic incident on Wednesday evening when a truck loaded with gas lighters was struck from behind by a trailer carrying chips near the A.N. College turn on Ring Road. Following the collision, the gas-laden truck caught fire and began to blaze intensely after moving a short distance. The flames quickly spread to the trailer loaded with chips, as well as to another empty trailer and a heavy vehicle nearby. The fire was so severe that all four vehicles were completely destroyed.

The co-driver of the trailer tragically lost his life at the scene due to severe burns, while two others who were injured were transported to Phulo Jhano Medical College and Hospital via Toto.

The deceased co-driver, identified as Umesh Kumar, hailed from the Banka district of Bihar, specifically from the Suhiya police station area. The injured individual, Santosh Kumar, is also from Banka's Belhar region. Both were aboard the chip-laden truck. For advanced medical care, Santosh has been referred to a facility in Siuri, West Bengal. The situation of both injured individuals is critical, and they are currently unable to provide statements.

The continuous explosions from the gas-laden vehicle caused panic in the surrounding area, drawing a crowd of onlookers.

Firefighters faced significant challenges in controlling the blaze. Upon receiving reports of the fire, two fire engines were dispatched to the scene, and efforts to extinguish the flames commenced. While firefighters managed to bring the fire under control in three of the vehicles, extinguishing the flames in the gas-laden truck proved to be particularly difficult. Officials, including Dumka's SDO Kaushal Kumar and DTO, were present at the site to assist with rescue operations. As of the latest updates, the fire had not been completely extinguished, and the origin of the gas-laden truck's journey remains under investigation.

The truck was carrying butane gas, commonly used in cigarette lighters. Butane is a flammable hydrocarbon gas that is stored in liquid form under pressure and ignites easily when released.