In the heart of Uttar Pradesh's capital, Lucknow, an unexpected calamity unfolded at dawn. A luxury sleeper bus, en route from Begusarai in Bihar to Delhi, turned into a fiery inferno on the busy Kisan Path. Tragically, two children, two women, and a man lost their lives as the bus, with around 80 passengers aboard, was engulfed in flames.
The disaster struck at approximately 5 AM near Mohanlalganj. Eyewitness passengers recounted that smoke began to fill the bus, and within moments, it transformed into roaring flames. As most of the passengers lay asleep, panic quickly spread through their midst.
Driver and Conductor Flee the Scene
According to eyewitnesses, as soon as the bus caught fire, the driver and conductor leapt from the vehicle and vanished. The presence of an extra seat near the driver’s compartment created an obstacle, complicating passenger evacuation. Many toppled, unable to escape the blaze.
Local Heroes Alert Authorities
Reacting swiftly, local residents notified the police and fire services. Firefighters arrived promptly and, after about a 30-minute battle, managed to subdue the flames. Inside, the rescue team discovered the charred remains of five unfortunate travelers.
Origin of the Blaze
Assistant Police Commissioner (Mohanlalganj) Rajneesh Verma reported that
, possibly ignited due to a short circuit in the gearbox. When the fire erupted, most passengers were asleep. The fire spread rapidly, preventing five individuals—two women, two children, and a man—from escaping in time.
Bus Continued After Catching Fire?
Police confirmed several passengers were injured and subsequently hospitalized. It was also discovered the bus's emergency exit was inoperable, trapping those at the rear. The investigation continues to confirm the cause of the fire. Eyewitnesses asserted the flames could be observed from up to a kilometer away, and the bus kept moving immediately after catching fire.
Source: aajtak
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath Expresses Condolences
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed profound sorrow in the wake of this Lucknow tragedy. He conveyed his condolences to the families of the deceased and instructed officials to accelerate relief and rescue efforts. Additionally, he mandated organized treatment for the injured.
Currently, law enforcement is investigating the incident, actively searching for the missing driver and conductor. The administration is working to identify the deceased and inform their families. Images of the catastrophe circulating on social media depict the magnitude of the tragedy.
