A potential tragedy was averted in the heart of Delhi on Tuesday morning when a tourist bus carrying passengers suddenly caught fire. The incident occurred near the bustling Kashmiri Gate Inter-State Bus Terminus (ISBT), a major transportation hub in the national capital.
Miraculous Escape for All Onboard
The fire broke out around 9:30 AM on April 29, sending plumes of thick black smoke into the sky. According to officials from the Delhi Fire Service (DFS), the bus was parked near the ISBT when the blaze started. All fifteen individuals on the bus, including the driver and passengers, managed to evacuate safely before the flames intensified. There were no reports of any injuries, marking a fortunate escape for everyone involved.
Eyewitnesses described a scene of sudden panic followed by a swift evacuation. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation, with initial assessments pointing towards a possible short circuit in the vehicle's electrical system. The bus was reportedly not in motion at the time, which likely contributed to the safe and timely exit of all occupants.
Swift Response by Firefighters
Upon receiving the distress call, the Delhi Fire Service acted promptly. Two fire tenders were rushed to the spot near the Kashmiri Gate ISBT to battle the flames. Firefighters faced the challenging task of controlling the fire and preventing it from spreading to other vehicles or infrastructure in the densely populated area.
Their efforts brought the situation under control, and the fire was eventually doused. However, the tourist bus suffered significant damage in the incident. The intense heat gutted a large portion of the vehicle, leaving behind a charred shell. The aftermath of the fire caused a temporary disruption in the traffic flow around the ISBT, a key entry and exit point for interstate buses in Delhi.
Investigation and Safety Reminders
Authorities have launched a full investigation to determine the exact origin and cause of the fire. A thorough examination of the bus's remains will be conducted. This incident serves as a critical reminder of the importance of vehicle maintenance and safety checks, especially for transport vehicles that carry multiple passengers.
Passenger safety protocols, including the presence and functionality of fire extinguishers and emergency exits, are paramount. The successful evacuation in this case highlights the importance of remaining calm and following safety procedures during such emergencies. The Delhi Fire Service has reiterated the need for regular electrical and mechanical audits of public service vehicles to prevent similar frightening episodes in the future.
