Mohan Kuthar
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Apr 22: An auto-rickshaw driver and his five passengers had a narrow escape after a mango tree came crashing down the vehicle.

Driver Umesh Poojary was ferrying three women and two children from Talapady to Someshwar Park when the incident took place.

When the auto reached near Kotekar town panchayat, an old mango tree came crashing down.

The consequences would have been serious but for Umesh's presence of mind and driving skills. Eyewitnesses said that as soon as he noticed the tree, Umesh brought his auto to a stop, such that the tree fell on only a part of the auto. He thus managed to avert what could have been a major mishap.

There is also a railway gate at the spot. When the gate is closed, vehicles line up waiting to cross. Luckily, at the time of the incident, the gate was open and there were no other vehicles.

Ullal police and local MESCOM personnel arrived at the spot and cleared the road.