Kottayam, 31 Dec (H.S.):A major tragedy was averted in the early hours of Wednesday when a Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) tourist bus caught fire while travelling through Kottayam district. The incident occurred around 3.30 a.m. near Pazhayidam, close to Manimala, when the bus was returning to Malappuram after completing a leisure trip to Gavi.

The bus was carrying 28 passengers along with the driver and conductor at the time of the incident. According to preliminary information, passengers noticed smoke emerging from the vehicle while it was still in motion. Alerted by the situation, the driver immediately stopped the bus, enabling all passengers to disembark safely.

Within minutes, the bus was engulfed in flames and completely gutted. Thanks to the timely response of the driver and the alertness of the passengers, no injuries or loss of life were reported.

Fire and Rescue Services personnel from Kanjirappally rushed to the spot after receiving information and managed to bring the blaze under control after nearly half an hour of firefighting efforts. By the time the fire was extinguished, the bus had been reduced to ashes.

The exact cause of the fire is yet to be determined. Preliminary assessments suggest a possible mechanical or electrical malfunction, and a detailed technical inspection has been initiated.

Arrangements were later made to transport the stranded passengers safely to Malappuram in another KSRTC bus. The incident has once again raised concerns over vehicle safety and the importance of regular maintenance, particularly for long-distance and tourist buses.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman