Close Call for Thane Commuters as Bus Engine Ignites
Passengers traveling on a Thane Municipal Transport (TMT) bus had a terrifying experience late Saturday night when their vehicle's engine suddenly burst into flames. The incident occurred around 11:30 pm on Pokhran Road No. 2, putting numerous commuters at risk during their journey from Vartak Nagar to Thane Station (West).
Alert Citizens Prevent Tragedy
The potential disaster was averted when vigilant passersby noticed thick smoke pouring from the rear engine compartment of the moving bus. These quick-thinking individuals immediately alerted the bus driver and conductor about the emerging emergency.
The bus staff responded promptly, bringing the vehicle to an immediate halt and efficiently evacuating all passengers to safety. Their swift action ensured that everyone was moved away from the burning vehicle before the situation could escalate.
Emergency Response and Investigation
Following the successful evacuation, the bus staff attempted to control the flames while simultaneously notifying emergency services. Fire and rescue teams arrived at the scene shortly after being alerted and quickly brought the blaze under control.
While the exact number of passengers on board during the incident remains unconfirmed, Yasin Tadvi, in charge of the Thane Regional Disaster Management Cell, confirmed that no injuries were reported. The cause of the sudden engine fire is currently under investigation by authorities.
This incident marks another concerning episode in Thane's public transport safety record and has raised questions about vehicle maintenance protocols. The timely intervention of ordinary citizens and the professional response of both bus staff and emergency services prevented what could have been a major tragedy on Thane's roads.
