Bhubaneswar, 21 August (H.S.): Panic erupted on National Highway-16 near Gadakharada Square in Khordha district on Thursday afternoon after an Ama (Our) Bus carrying around 40 passengers caught fire while en route from Jagatpur (Cuttack) to Rameswar.
According to eyewitnesses, the incident occurred around noon when smoke was seen emanating from the engine compartment. Reacting swiftly, the bus driver pulled over to the roadside and, along with the support staff, safely evacuated all passengers before the flames spread.
“As soon as the bus stopped, everyone rushed out. Within minutes, the vehicle was engulfed in flames,” recounted one of the passengers, praising the prompt response of the bus crew which helped avert a major tragedy.
Three fire tenders were deployed to the site, and it took nearly 30 minutes to bring the blaze under control. Despite their efforts, the bus was completely gutted, reduced to a charred metal shell.
Vehicular movement on the busy NH-16 was briefly disrupted as fire personnel and police managed the situation and ensured the highway was cleared for traffic.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda
