A peaceful overnight journey turned into a scene of unimaginable horror early Thursday morning when a sleeper bus carrying passengers from Delhi to Bihar caught fire on the Yamuna Expressway in Greater Noida, leaving nine people dead.
The horrific incident occurred near the 33-kilometre milestone, falling under the jurisdiction of the Jewar police station area. Fire and police authorities rushed to the spot after receiving alerts about the blaze, but the flames swiftly consumed the sleeper coach, giving several occupants little time to escape.
According to a spokesperson for the Gautam Buddh Nagar Police, nine passengers succumbed to the fire. Emergency responders worked to extinguish the blaze and rescue survivors, with several injured passengers rushed to nearby medical facilities for treatment. Further details regarding the identities of the victims and the cause of the fire are awaited as police continue their investigation.
Expressing deep grief over the loss of life, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath took immediate cognisance of the tragic accident and extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families.
In an official statement, the Chief Minister instructed district administration officials to reach the spot without delay, facilitate high-quality medical care for the injured, and establish direct communication with the families of the victims to ensure all possible state support. CM Adityanath also wished those injured in the accident a full and speedy recovery.
Investigations are underway to determine whether a mechanical fault, short circuit, or collision triggered the fatal blaze.
