Ahmedabad: A fire incident involving an e-scooter battery occurred in the Vasna area of Gujarat, on Wednesday morning. It also resulted in significant property damage. The fire broke out while the battery was charging in a third-floor flat of Siddha-Shila Apartments around 4:30 AM, prompting a swift response from the Ahmedabad Fire and Emergency Services (AFES).

According to AFES officials, the scooter’s owner, a 20-year-old man, was asleep in the drawing room near the charging battery when an explosion, reportedly triggered by a spark, led to the fire. His mother and sister, who were asleep in another room, became trapped due to smoke and flames. A resident of the building, who wished to remain anonymous, noted that the open window in the bedroom allowed fresh air to disperse the smoke, potentially saving their lives.

The family sought refuge on the balcony while awaiting rescue from the AFES personnel. The young man escaped first, according to the officers on the scene. The fire destroyed numerous household items, including a television, washing machine, air conditioner, and dining tables.
A family member mentioned that they had purchased a new battery for the e-scooter on July 4, and the e-scooter itself had been acquired two years prior for Rs 75,000.

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This incident is part of a troubling trend in Ahmedabad regarding battery-related fires. Just last week, a showroom for electric vehicles in Asarwa caught fire, and on June 24, three electric buses at the Vastral depot, managed by the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation, were damaged while charging.

To mitigate the risk of battery fires, and less such fire-related battery news, the government must implement stringent regulations and safety standards for electric vehicle batteries. This includes establishing comprehensive guidelines for manufacturing, testing, and labeling batteries to ensure they meet safety requirements. Regular inspections and certifications should be mandated for charging stations and residential charging setups to identify potential hazards before they escalate. Additionally, public awareness campaigns can educate consumers about safe charging practices and the importance of using certified components.

Moreover, the government should invest in research and development for safer battery technologies and alternative energy storage solutions. Collaborating with industry stakeholders to promote innovation can lead to the creation of more reliable and fire-resistant battery designs. Establishing a rapid response framework for fire incidents, including training for emergency services on handling battery-related fires, will also enhance public safety. By prioritizing these measures, the government can significantly reduce the occurrence of battery fires and protect residents from similar incidents in the future.