Mo Bus catches fire in Cuttack, passengers evacuated through windows as door jams

In a harrowing incident, a Mo Bus caught fire near Birupa barrage under Jagatpur Police Station in Cuttack on Saturday.

As per reports, passengers on the bus were forced to flee through the windows of the vehicle as the sensor gate didn’t open. The vehicle’s malfunctioning entrance gate prevented a normal evacuation, prompting passengers to react swiftly.

The Mo Bus was en route from Agrahata in Choudwar to Cuttack when the incident occurred. Over 35 individuals boarded at various stops, including Chudakhia, Kalinga Square, and Gandhi Square. 

Shortly after crossing the Birupa bridge, passengers reportedly heard a loud bang which preceded the fire.

Passengers’ narrow escape

With smoke filling the cabin, the driver managed to stop the bus safely. The panic-intensified situation worsened when the bus’ automatic doors failed to operate. Demonstrating quick resolution, passengers escaped through the windows, avoiding a potential tragedy.

Maintenance concerns raised

The driver of the vehicle voiced concerns over the Mo Bus fleet’s apparent lack of regular maintenance, suggesting that continuous, unchecked operation may have contributed to the incident.

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The buses are constantly on the roads without proper servicing, the driver remarked, raising questions about safety oversight and maintenance protocols.

However, the exact cause behind the reason as to why the Mo Bus caught fire is yet to be ascertained.

Investigations are ongoing to ascertain the cause of the fire. Local law enforcement and transport authorities have announced an inquiry into the incident to enhance passenger safety measures and vehicle maintenance standards.