A tense moment unfolded on the national highway near Regupalem Junction in Yelamanchili mandal of Anakapalli district on Friday when a private bus belonging to Tulasi Travels caught fire, forcing passengers to rush out in panic. The bus was travelling from Bhubaneswar to Chennai when flames suddenly broke out, creating fear and confusion along the busy route.
According to initial reports, fire officials suspect a short circuit may have triggered the blaze. Thanks to the quick response of the passengers and emergency teams, everyone on board was evacuated safely before the fire could spread further.
Swift Evacuation Prevents Major Tragedy
What could have turned into a deadly disaster ended without casualties, which is now being seen as the biggest relief. Passengers reportedly managed to get off the bus in time after noticing smoke and flames, while people nearby alerted the authorities immediately.
Firefighters rushed to the spot and began efforts to bring the blaze under control. The sight of thick smoke rising from the bus on the highway drew the attention of motorists and locals, causing a brief traffic disruption in the area.
Suspected Short Circuit Under Probe
While the exact cause is yet to be confirmed, officials believe an electrical short circuit may have sparked the fire. Investigators are expected to examine the bus to determine how the incident began and whether safety lapses played any role.
Such incidents once again raise concerns about vehicle maintenance and fire safety in long-distance private travel services. For passengers, what began as a routine journey ended in a frightening roadside escape that could have been far worse.
Relief Amid Panic
The absence of injuries or loss of life has brought immense relief to both passengers and authorities. Even so, the incident serves as a sharp reminder of how quickly a long-distance trip can turn into an emergency on the highway.
For now, the bus has been reduced to a charred shell, but the prompt evacuation likely saved many lives. What remains is a chilling lesson in highway safety — and a narrow escape that passengers will not forget anytime soon.
