In a dramatic incident during the evening rush hour, a car caught fire in the Marina Coastal Expressway (MCE) tunnel on 18 September 2024, bringing traffic to a complete standstill. The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) responded swiftly to the emergency, extinguishing the flames and ensuring the safety of all motorists in the tunnel.
Details of the Incident
The SCDF received emergency calls at around 6:40 PM and quickly dispatched multiple units to the scene. Eyewitness accounts reveal that traffic came to a halt approximately at 6:55 PM, with Mr. Isaiah Tay, a passenger in the tunnel, describing the chaotic situation.
- Fire involved a non-electric vehicle.
- SCDF used the tunnel’s deluge system and firefighters employed a compressed air foam jet to put out the blaze.
- No injuries were reported, and the cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Motorists’ Experience
Many motorists were stuck in traffic for around 35 minutes, as highlighted by various witnesses. In a report to Channel News Asia (CNA), Tay noted that his Grab driver received notifications about the incident, and the Land Transport Authority (LTA) subsequently advised drivers to evacuate their vehicles using the nearest emergency exits.
Footage shared by Tay illustrated the aftermath, showing a fire-damaged vehicle parked on the shoulder of the expressway, as the SCDF personnel concluded their operations.
Response and Investigation
The efficient response by the SCDF has been praised, demonstrating the importance of quick action in emergency situations. The ongoing investigation is expected to determine the exact cause of the fire and prevent similar incidents in the future.
As the situation unfolds, motorists are reminded to stay vigilant and follow advisories during peak traffic hours.