Nine passengers were killed after a moving air-conditioned sleeper bus caught fire on the Yamuna Expressway near Jewar in Greater Noida late Wednesday night. The bus, carrying around 35 passengers, was travelling from Noida towards Mahoba when the fire broke out near the 33 kilometre mark. Several passengers were injured and rushed to a hospital in Jewar for treatment.

Fire Breaks Out During Journey

The incident occurred around 11 pm near Dayanatpur village. According to preliminary findings, a spark or blast in the bus's air conditioning system may have caused engine lubricating oil to catch fire. The flames reportedly spread rapidly through the vehicle, leaving passengers with little time to escape.

Many passengers were asleep when the fire began. Thick smoke quickly filled the passenger compartment, creating panic and making it difficult for people to locate the exits. Some passengers managed to escape after the bus came to a halt, while others remained trapped inside.

Passengers Raise Alarm

According to the police complaint, some passengers noticed a burning smell coming from the driver's cabin and alerted the driver and conductor. They reportedly asked the driver to stop and check the source of the smell. The complaint alleges that the driver and conductor continued smoking and did not immediately act on the warning.

Within minutes, the situation reportedly became uncontrollable as flames spread through the bus. Survivors described a chaotic scene as passengers struggled to escape through the available exits.

Driver and Conductor Apprehended

Police, fire personnel and rescue teams reached the spot after receiving information about the blaze. Around 20 to 25 passengers were rescued from the bus. Nine people were later found dead inside the vehicle. Preliminary reports attributed the deaths to severe burns and suffocation.

The driver and conductor reportedly fled from the scene following the incident but were later apprehended by the police. Authorities have begun questioning them as part of the investigation.

Probe Into Cause Underway

Police have registered a case and launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fire. Investigators are examining the damaged bus, statements from survivors and other evidence to determine the exact cause of the blaze.

The incident has once again raised concerns about passenger safety, emergency preparedness and the maintenance of long distance buses operating on major highways. Authorities are expected to examine whether proper safety measures and regulations were followed before the bus began its journey.