Commuters in the national capital faced a tense morning after a Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) bus caught fire near Dhaula Kuan on Thursday. The incident, which took place during peak traffic hours, sparked panic among passengers and motorists on one of the city’s busiest stretches. Fortunately, all passengers managed to evacuate safely, and no casualties were reported.
The Incident Unfolds
Eyewitnesses said the bus was moving toward Central Delhi when smoke began to billow from its engine area. Within moments, flames spread, forcing the driver to stop the vehicle and instruct passengers to get off quickly. Local traffic police and bystanders rushed to help, ensuring a safe evacuation.
Fire tenders from the Delhi Fire Service (DFS) reached the spot soon after, bringing the blaze under control before it could spread further. Still, the incident caused massive traffic congestion in and around Dhaula Kuan, a key intersection that connects South Delhi, Central Delhi, and Gurugram.
Quick Response Prevents Tragedy
According to DFS officials, two fire engines were deployed to the site. “We received a call about a bus fire near Dhaula Kuan and immediately dispatched teams. The fire was doused within minutes, and no injuries have been reported,” a DFS spokesperson said.
Passengers later expressed relief at having escaped unharmed. “It was terrifying. We smelled smoke, and suddenly the bus was filled with it. Everyone rushed out. Thankfully, the driver reacted quickly,” said one commuter.
Possible Causes Under Investigation
While the exact cause of the fire is still under investigation, initial reports suggest it could have been triggered by an electrical short circuit in the engine compartment. DTC buses, especially older models, have often been criticized for poor maintenance and safety lapses.
Experts say mechanical wear-and-tear, combined with inadequate servicing, can make buses vulnerable to such mishaps. “Public transport vehicles must undergo regular safety checks. A single fault in wiring or overheating of components can lead to disastrous consequences,” said a transport safety analyst.
Public Safety Concerns
The incident has once again raised questions about the safety of public transport in Delhi. With lakhs of passengers relying on DTC buses daily, even a minor lapse can pose serious risks. In recent years, several such incidents of bus fires have been reported across the city, though most have ended without casualties due to timely intervention.
Traffic police officials also pointed out how quickly such accidents can escalate. “The area near Dhaula Kuan is extremely busy, with vehicles moving toward Ring Road and Gurugram. A fire accident here can not only endanger passengers but also trigger chain collisions if not managed in time,” said an officer on duty.
Need for Preventive Measures
The Delhi government has emphasized the need for upgrading public transport infrastructure and ensuring safety compliance. Experts recommend:
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Routine safety checks of buses, focusing on electrical and fuel systems.
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Fire extinguishers and safety training for bus drivers and conductors.
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Phased replacement of aging buses with modern, fire-resistant models.
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Passenger awareness programs on how to respond in emergencies.
“Safety is as important as affordability in public transport. Incidents like these highlight the urgent need for stronger preventive measures,” said a representative from a road safety NGO.
Traffic Woes and Commuter Impact
The fire also brought traffic to a standstill for nearly an hour. Long queues of vehicles formed on both sides of the road, causing delays for office-goers and students. With Dhaula Kuan being a key transit hub, ripple effects of the congestion were felt as far as Chanakyapuri and Gurgaon Road.
Conclusion: A Wake-Up Call for Public Safety
The DTC bus fire near Dhaula Kuan ended without injuries, but it serves as a stark reminder of the fragile state of public transport safety in Delhi. While quick action from the driver, bystanders, and fire officials prevented a disaster, the incident underscores the urgent need for regular vehicle inspections, modern infrastructure, and better safety mechanisms.
As Delhi continues to expand and its dependence on public transport grows, passenger safety cannot be left to chance. This incident should not just be seen as another traffic disruption—it must be treated as a wake-up call for authorities to prioritize safety over convenience. After all, in a city constantly on the move, even one spark can put countless lives at risk.
