On a busy afternoon in Kathmandu, a shocking incident unfolded that left onlookers stunned. A moving electric scooter suddenly burst into flames, sending sparks and smoke into the air. The rider, caught by surprise, quickly pulled over and tried to extinguish the fire. Thankfully, no one was hurt, but the event has sparked serious safety concerns about electric vehicles in Nepal’s crowded urban areas.
What Happened?
The incident occurred on a bustling street in the heart of Kathmandu, where traffic is always heavy. Witnesses say the electric scooter, a popular brand in Nepal, was moving normally when flames appeared from its battery compartment. “It was so sudden,” said Ramesh Shrestha, a shopkeeper who saw the event. “One moment, the scooter was fine, and then there was fire everywhere. The rider was brave to stop and try to put it out.”
The rider, a 25-year-old delivery worker named Suman Tamang, acted quickly. He jumped off the scooter and used a cloth to beat the flames, but the fire grew too big. Nearby people called the fire brigade, who arrived within minutes to put out the blaze. The scooter was completely destroyed, but Suman escaped without injuries. “I was so scared,” he said. “I didn’t know what to do, but I’m glad I’m safe.”
Why Did the Scooter Catch Fire?
Experts say electric scooter fires are often caused by problems with lithium-ion batteries. These batteries power most electric vehicles in Nepal and are known for being lightweight and efficient. But if they are damaged, poorly made, or charged incorrectly, they can overheat and catch fire. “Lithium-ion batteries are safe when made properly,” said Dr. Anil Gurung, an engineer at Kathmandu University. “But low-quality batteries or bad chargers can be dangerous.”
In Nepal, many people buy electric scooters because they are cheaper to run than gas-powered bikes. They are also better for the environment, producing no smoke or pollution. However, some scooters sold online or in local markets may not meet safety standards. “Cheap batteries and DIY repairs are a big problem,” Dr. Gurung added. “They can lead to accidents like this.”
Growing Concerns in Urban Areas
This fire is not the first of its kind in Nepal’s urban areas. In recent years, electric vehicles have become very popular in cities like Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Biratnagar. They are perfect for navigating narrow streets and avoiding traffic jams. But as more people use electric scooters, safety concerns are growing.
In 2024, Nepal saw a rise in electric scooter fires, with several incidents reported in Kathmandu alone. These events have caused injuries and damaged property, making people worry about the risks. “We love our scooters, but we need to know they’re safe,” said Priya Sharma, a college student who rides an electric scooter to class. “What if this happens to me?”
The government is starting to take notice. The Department of Transport Management in Nepal is working on new rules to make electric vehicles safer. These rules might include stricter checks on battery quality and better training for riders. “We want to encourage electric vehicles, but safety comes first,” said a government official.
What Can Be Done?
To prevent electric scooter fires, experts suggest a few simple steps:
-
Buy from Trusted Brands: Choose electric scooters from well-known companies that follow safety standards. Avoid cheap models sold online without proper testing.
-
Charge Safely: Always use the charger that comes with your scooter. Don’t leave it charging overnight or near flammable things like paper or cloth.
-
Check Your Battery: If your scooter’s battery looks damaged or swollen, stop using it and take it to a professional for repair.
-
Be Prepared: Learn what to do if a fire starts. Keep a small fire extinguisher nearby if possible.
Fire departments in Nepal are also training to handle electric vehicle fires. Unlike regular fires, battery fires are harder to put out because they burn very hot. Firefighters now use special tools, like thermal cameras, to make sure the fire doesn’t start again after being extinguished.
The Future of Electric Scooters in Nepal
Despite the risks, electric scooters are still a great choice for Nepal’s urban areas. They help reduce air pollution, which is a big problem in cities like Kathmandu. The government and companies like Yatri Motorcycles are working to make electric vehicles safer and more reliable. For example, Yatri recently teased a new “Made in Nepal” electric scooter that promises better safety features.
But for now, incidents like this fire remind everyone to be careful. “We need to balance the benefits of electric scooters with safety concerns,” said Dr. Gurung. “With the right steps, we can make sure these vehicles are safe for everyone.”
A Wake-Up Call
The sight of an electric scooter bursting into flames was a scary moment for Kathmandu’s residents. It’s a reminder that while electric vehicles are the future, they come with risks that need to be addressed. By choosing safe scooters, charging them properly, and following new government rules, riders in Nepal’s urban areas can enjoy their scooters without fear.
For Suman, the rider who escaped the fire, the incident was a lesson. “I love my electric scooter, but I’ll be more careful now,” he said. “I don’t want this to happen again.” As Nepal continues to embrace electric vehicles, this event is a wake-up call to put fire safety first.
