A tragic fire incident in an air-conditioned bus travelling from Nachna to Ahmedabad has left one person dead and several others seriously injured, turning a routine journey into a horrifying ordeal.
The bus, which had departed from Jaisalmer, caught fire while en route, with many passengers reportedly asleep at the time of the incident.
Passengers caught unaware
According to initial reports, the fire spread rapidly through the vehicle, leaving passengers little time to react. Many woke up to smoke and flames, forcing them to jump out of the moving or halted bus to save their lives.
At least nine passengers sustained severe burn injuries, while one passenger succumbed to injuries in the incident.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic and confusion as people struggled to escape the burning vehicle in the dark.
Chaos and delayed help
The situation worsened as injured passengers, including women, were seen crying out for help and urgently seeking transport to nearby hospitals.
Locals gathered at the scene, but reports suggest that immediate transport for the injured was not readily available, delaying critical medical attention.
The lack of quick emergency response added to the distress of victims, many of whom were in severe pain and shock.
Investigation underway
Authorities are expected to investigate the cause of the fire, including whether it originated from an electrical fault or another technical issue in the AC bus.
Officials have also been urged to examine safety measures in long-distance buses, especially night services where passengers are often asleep and vulnerable.
The incident has once again raised concerns about passenger safety and emergency preparedness in intercity bus travel.