Passengers of a Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TSRTC) bus had a narrow escape after the vehicle caught fire while on its way from Hyderabad to Karimnagar on Tuesday afternoon. The incident took place near the Kothakonda village in the Warangal district of Telangana.
Eyewitnesses reported that the bus was travelling at a high speed when the driver suddenly applied the brakes and stopped the vehicle on the side of the road. Passengers immediately noticed smoke coming out of the engine and raised an alarm. Within minutes, the bus was engulfed in flames, causing panic among those onboard.
Luckily, all passengers managed to escape from the burning bus without any major injuries. Some of them suffered minor burns and injuries while trying to get out of the vehicle. Local residents rushed to the spot and helped the passengers to safety.
The TSRTC officials said that they have launched an investigation into the incident to ascertain the cause of the fire. Preliminary reports suggest that a short circuit in the engine compartment could have led to the fire. The bus was completely destroyed in the blaze, causing a loss of several lakhs of rupees.
The incident highlights the need for strict safety measures to be implemented in public transport vehicles. It is not uncommon for buses and other public transport vehicles to catch fire due to various reasons, including faulty wiring, engine malfunction, and lack of maintenance. Such incidents can lead to loss of life and property if not dealt with promptly.
In this case, the quick thinking of the driver and the timely intervention of local residents helped prevent a major tragedy. However, it is important for transport authorities to take proactive measures to ensure the safety of passengers. Regular maintenance checks, proper training for drivers and staff, and installation of fire safety equipment are some of the steps that can be taken to prevent such incidents.
Passengers also have a role to play in ensuring their own safety. They should be aware of the emergency exits and procedures in case of an emergency. They should also report any suspicious smells or smoke immediately to the driver or conductor.
In conclusion, the TSRTC bus fire incident is a reminder of the importance of safety measures in public transport vehicles. It is the responsibility of both the transport authorities and passengers to ensure that such incidents are prevented in the future.
