Ankola: A major accident occurred in Ankola taluk of Uttara Kannada district on Thursday after an ethanol-laden tanker overturned and caught fire on National Highway 52 near Kanchinabagilu, close to Agasur, triggering panic in the area.

According to sources, the tanker was transporting ethanol from Nippani to an oil company in Mangaluru when it met with the accident. Soon after overturning, the vehicle burst into flames, sending massive fireballs soaring into the sky. The intensity of the blaze was so severe that no one could go near the spot.

The tanker driver sustained critical burn injuries, with nearly 90 percent of his body reportedly affected. He was initially rushed to the Ankola taluk hospital and later shifted to the district hospital in Karwar (KRIMS) for advanced treatment. His condition is stated to be critical.

Reports said another lorry driver sustained minor injuries while attempting to rescue the victim, while the tanker cleaner is reported missing.

The fire quickly spread to nearby forest areas, worsening the situation.

Fire and emergency personnel from Ankola and Karwar, along with a naval fire unit from INS Vajrakosh, rushed to the spot and brought the blaze under control after prolonged efforts.

The incident led to a complete disruption of traffic on National Highway 52 for several hours, causing significant inconvenience to commuters. Traffic movement was later restored after authorities brought the situation under control.

Senior officials, including the Ankola Tahsildar and police officers, visited the spot and supervised relief operations. A case has been registered at the Ankola Police Station, and further investigation is underway.