Private Bus Gutted by Fire on Tumkur-Bengaluru Highway; All Passengers Evacuate Safely
In a harrowing incident on the Tumkur–Bengaluru National Highway (NH-48), approximately thirty passengers had a miraculous escape after their private bus caught fire and was completely destroyed. The terrifying event unfolded in the early hours of Friday near Indiranagar Colony at Hanumanthapura Gate within Nelamangala taluk.
Timeline and Initial Investigation
Based on preliminary police reports, the accident occurred between 1:30 AM and 1:45 AM. The bus, registered as KA-01-AS-7740 and operated by Sanjana Travels, was en route from Bengaluru to Kalaburagi when disaster struck. Ongoing road construction work on the highway reportedly caused the driver to lose control, veering onto the footpath.
The vehicle collided with an electric pole installed by BESCOM, causing it to tilt sharply to the left. Sensing imminent danger, the driver, cleaner, and all passengers swiftly evacuated the bus. Within moments, flames erupted and rapidly engulfed the entire vehicle, reducing it to a charred shell.
Narrow Escape and Immediate Aftermath
Police confirmed that the area's power supply was briefly cut off and only restored after all occupants had safely exited the bus. This timely disruption likely prevented a major tragedy, as live electrical wires could have exacerbated the situation. Passengers sustained only minor bruises from the initial impact with the pole.
The fire's intensity was so severe that the bus was completely gutted within minutes. Fire and Emergency Services personnel rushed to the scene, deploying a water tanker to extinguish the blaze. Officers from Thyamagondlu police station and Nelamangala Traffic Police arrived promptly to manage traffic and clear the area.
Passenger Distress and Loss of Belongings
While relieved to have escaped with their lives, many passengers were left deeply distressed as all their belongings stored in the luggage compartment were destroyed in the inferno. A police officer noted that several passengers were seen in tears after losing their valuables in the incident.
Thyamagondlu police have registered a formal case and are conducting a thorough investigation into the causes and circumstances surrounding the fire. The incident highlights the critical importance of road safety measures, especially in areas undergoing construction, and serves as a stark reminder of how quickly emergencies can escalate on highways.
