Major bus fire narrowly averted in Andhra Pradesh, all passengers safe

A potentially serious accident was narrowly avoided early Wednesday morning when a private travel bus caught fire near the Kovvur toll plaza in East Godavari district. The bus, which was traveling from Khammam to Visakhapatnam, was completely gutted, but all passengers and crew escaped safely.

According to police officials, the fire broke out as the bus climbed the Kovvur flyover. A suspected short circuit in the self-starter motor caused sparks from the engine, which quickly led to flames. Alertness on the part of the driver proved crucial - he immediately stopped the vehicle and warned everyone on board.

There were ten people in the bus at the time, including six passengers and four staff members. All of them managed to get out without sustaining any injuries. Police confirmed that everyone had evacuated the bus before the fire spread fully.

The driver said a technical fault in the dynamo may have triggered the blaze. Within about ten minutes, passengers were able to retrieve their luggage as well. Fire department personnel rushed to the spot and brought the fire under control. Officials estimated the loss at around ₹80 lakh.

Following the incident, police regulated traffic at the toll plaza to prevent congestion. Alternative transport arrangements were made to help passengers continue their journey. Authorities have launched a technical inspection to determine the exact cause of the fire.

The incident has once again raised concerns, as bus accidents have been reported frequently in the Telugu states in recent times. Past tragedies involving buses catching fire and passengers being trapped have caused widespread fear. With the Sankranti festival season underway and train tickets in short supply, many travelers are relying on private buses. Repeated accidents during this peak travel period are adding to public anxiety over passenger safety.